Everything that Apple announced during its Wanderlust event wasn’t that exciting as we already know what they are going to launch during this event. The main thing Apple fans are excited about is the long pending USB-C port availability. Apple has finally introduced a USB-C port for all the iPhone 15 that was launched this week. With that, we can say goodbye to the lightning port. No more cable clutters again.
Exploring the New USB-C Era
At first, looking at the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro sport USB-C ports at first glance, but upon closer inspection, they reveal subtle disparities. While both these ports can fulfil the standard functions of charging, data transfer, and audio-video output, it’s crucial to discern that the USB-C port on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus adheres strictly to USB 2.0 standards. This translates to a maximum data transfer speed of 480Mbps.
This limitation can be attributed to the iPhone 15’s A16 Bionic processor, which mirrors the hardware configuration of the preceding iPhone 14 Pro lineup, lacking a dedicated USB 3 controller. In stark contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro, powered by the A17 Pro chip, boasts a USB 3 controller that empowers it to support lightning-fast data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps. Although Apple hasn’t explicitly specified the exact USB 3 version, the 10Gbps rating hints at USB 3.2 Gen 2×1, given that USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 offers transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps.
Unveiling the Cable Conundrum
Regardless of whether you opt for an iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro, the box will contain a USB-C to USB-C cable rated at USB 2.0. To unlock the full potential of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max’s USB 3 capabilities, you’ll need an optional USB-C to USB-C cable that supports USB 3 with 10Gbps capabilities.
The benefits of investing in such a cable are abundant. With the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, you can harness the power of a USB 3-capable cable to connect to your Mac and seamlessly integrate with Capture One. This integration enables you to shoot and transfer ProRaw images instantly to your computer, enhancing your workflow efficiency. Additionally, these devices facilitate the connection of external drives via the USB-C cable, a boon for those engaging in ProRes video recording at up to 4K60 resolution. This obviates the need for splurging on the highest storage option when acquiring your new iPhone 15 Pro. Nevertheless, for most everyday users, the USB 3 capabilities might remain largely untapped, primarily serving the purpose of charging the device.
The Availability Dilemma
Surprisingly, as of this moment, Apple’s Malaysia store does not offer standalone USB 3 cables. Instead, the available options include USB 2 charging cables and Thunderbolt 4 USB-C cables. It’s crucial to note that Thunderbolt 4 cables, though versatile, offer an excess of capabilities for the 10Gbps transfer speeds supported by the iPhone 15 Pro. Furthermore, the standard 1-meter USB-C charging cable can deliver up to 60W of charging power, making it versatile enough to charge various Apple devices, from MacBooks to iPads, and even the latest AirPods 2nd Gen with USB-C charging, offering a convenient solution for your diverse charging needs.
The advent of USB-C in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro lineup signifies a significant shift in Apple’s design philosophy. While the hardware remains consistent, the differentiation lies in the USB 3 capabilities, with the iPhone 15 Pro harnessing the full potential of this technology. To unlock the true prowess of your iPhone 15 Pro, consider investing in a USB-C to USB-C cable with USB 3 support, allowing you to elevate your photography and videography endeavours to new heights. As technology evolves, so does Apple’s ecosystem, and being prepared with the right accessories can make all the difference in maximizing your Apple experience.
