Apple has been working towards the concept of a portless iPhone 17 Air, projecting a future with charging solely using MagSafe or Qi-compatible wireless chargers.
Although an early rumor indicated European Union (EU) laws might keep such a product from being produced, the latest report suggests the Cupertino-based giant can actually roll out a portless iPhone without breaking any legislations.
EU Regulations Won't Stop a Portless iPhone
The European Union has been rigorous in enforcing uniform charging practices across devices, having compelled Apple to adopt USB-C ports for its entire product range in recent times. Several feared that a portless iPhone would be "anti-consumer" and attract regulatory penalties. But 9to5Mac reports that European Commission press officer Federica Miccoli attested that it is not forbidden to sell a portless iPhone.
As long as Apple steers clear of developing a proprietary charging technique—such as the recently retired Lightning port—the EU won't complain about a portless iPhone. This green light for Apple means it can continue with its plans to revolutionize the iPhone's charging tech.
Read more: iPhone 17 Is Coming by 2025, Waiting Game Might Take Some Time: Here Are the Best Rumors so Far
MagSafe and Qi2 Wireless Charging Are Already Gaining Momentum
Apple has been gradually enhancing its wireless charging rates, and the concept of a portless iPhone has become more plausible. The iPhone 16 series supports up to 25W MagSafe wireless charging, while Qi2 wireless chargers offer up to 15W speeds. Although wired charging remains quicker, wireless charging convenience is gaining greater appeal to customers, Wccftech reports.
Moreover, the iPhone maker's MagSafe technology has been developed, offering a stable and convenient charging option. The increasing ubiquity of Qi-compatible chargers gives peace of mind for customers to not buy separate proprietary accessories.
Why a Portless iPhone Would Still Be Consumer-Friendly
One of the most important motivations behind the EU's push for the USB-C shift was the elimination of electronic waste and uniformity across devices.
Thankfully, a portless iPhone that's dependent on MagSafe and Qi wireless charging meets these objectives. Because Qi-enabled chargers support various smartphones, Apple's wireless solution would neither fragment the market nor compel people to purchase sole-accessory devices.
By adopting popular wireless standards, Apple will be able to deflect accusations of monopoly, thereby laying the ground for a successful introduction of a port-less iPhone.
Consumer Adoption: Are Users Prepared for a Portless iPhone?
Wireless charging has evolved, yet many users want the speed and consistency of a wired connection. Despite these reservations, Apple has had a history of driving mass adoption of new technology and pushing technology limits. The portless iPhone, of course, won't be appealing to all users because of differences in their preferences.
If Apple manages to speed up wireless charging and make batteries more efficient, a portless iPhone might be a mainstream reality sooner rather than later. Further, as wireless charging pads proliferate in public places, at home, and in cars, the convenience of going totally wireless may eventually surpass the inconvenience.
