In a move that has sparked debates among consumers and tech enthusiasts, Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) Stores across China have been advising iPhone 15 users against using Android USB-C cables to charge their devices due to concerns about overheating. This development comes shortly after the launch of the iPhone 15 series, which marked a significant transition for the company as it adopted a universal Type-C interface, replacing its proprietary Lightning cables.
The shift to a universal Type-C interface was intended to benefit both existing iPhone users and those switching from Android devices. Reports of overheating when using Android chargers have emerged, however. Multiple media outlets have reported instances of iPhone 15 models becoming uncomfortably hot to touch during charging.
Apple Stores in China have responded by cautioning customers against using Android USB-C chargers with their new iPhones. This warning was first reported by Gizmo China at an Apple Store in Foshan, Guangdong Province, where staff cited concerns about the different pin arrangements between the two interfaces potentially leading to overheating. Similar advisories have been issued by multiple Apple-exclusive stores across China, as reported by Chinese portal CNMO.
Despite online rumors suggesting that using Android USB-C cables could potentially damage the new iPhones, AppleInsider reported on Thursday that this is not the case. The concern appears to primarily revolve around overheating issues that some users have experienced while charging their devices with these cables.
While Apple has not officially commented on this issue, these advisories have sparked discussions about whether they genuinely reflect device safety concerns or are part of a strategy to encourage iPhone 15 users to purchase Apple's own USB-C cables.
Apple's official guide does recommend using the company's own cables and charging adapters but also notes that third-party cables and power adapters can be used if they comply with specific criteria. These include compliance with USB 2.0 or later standards and adherence to relevant safety regulations. Apple has also warned that not all third-party adapters meet these safety standards and using such adapters could pose serious risks.
Amid these discussions, AppleInsider has clarified that using Android USB-C cables for the iPhone 15 series does not pose any risk of damage to the devices. The report explains that every USB-C cable typically comes with 24 pins, with 12 of those pins located on the side of the internal tongue to make it bi-directional, suitable for data and power transfer, charging, and alternate modes between a host and a client.
The report further suggests that rather than worrying about the adaptability of Android USB-C cables, iPhone 15 owners should be more concerned about the durability of their devices. A recent drop test revealed that despite using a titanium frame, the iPhone 15 Pro is less resistant than the iPhone 14 Pro.
Despite these concerns, it's worth noting that Apple has been performing strongly in the market. According to InvestingPro data, the company has a market capitalization of 2680.0B USD and a P/E ratio of 28.72. Its revenue stands at 383.93B USD, and it has maintained a positive growth trajectory. This financial stability has allowed Apple to maintain its dividend payments for 12 consecutive years, as noted in InvestingPro Tips.
Moreover, as per InvestingPro Tips, Apple operates with a high return on assets and has been aggressively buying back shares, indicating the management's confidence in the company's future. This trend, combined with the fact that the company is a prominent player in the Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals industry, suggests that Apple's position in the market remains strong despite the current discussions surrounding the iPhone 15 series.
For those interested in more insights, InvestingPro offers numerous additional tips for AAPL and other companies.
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