The iPhone 16E has been launched and represents a real upgrade to its predecessor, iPhone SE, not only by name, but also by design and hardware. At the same time, this launch marks the end of the iPhone devices with Port Lightning. Thus, Apple no longer sells new iPhones with Port Lightning, all the models available now having the USB-C Port.
Apple no longer sells iPhone devices with port Lightning
With the launch of the iPhone 16E, Apple has withdrawn from the market three models: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone SE. These were completely eliminated from the official site, thus establishing the definitive renunciation of the Lightning port on the new models. However, users can still purchase refurbished iPhones with Port Lightning directly from Apple, or new devices, from stores that still have these models.
The transition to the USB-C port started in 2023, with the launch of the iPhone 15 series, after the European Union required the use of a universal loading port by 2024. Apple quickly implemented this change, managing to complete the transition in just two years, with the launch of the iPhone 16E.
Although Apple has remained faithful to the iPhone devices with Port Lightning, the transition to the USB-C port for charging and data transfer, has brought many connectivity advantages, this standard supporting many more technologies.
Related: What devices can you connect to iPhone 15 via USB-C.
This change is not just about iPhone. The new iPad models also have USB-C port, completely eliminating the lightning port from all new iPhones, iPads and even Macs. However, Apple continues to sell some accessories, such as the first Apple Pencil, which still uses the Lightning port.
Another Apple innovation that disappears with the launch iPhone 16e is the Home button. The iPhone SE (the third generation) was the last officially sold model that had this emblematic button, introduced for the first time in 2007. With its withdrawal, the Home button becomes history.
