Swiss robotics engineer Ken Pillonel just developed a commercial solution for iPhone users with Lightning connectors who want fully functional USB-C connectivity without upgrading their devices. The new case gives Lightning iPhones a USB-C port.
Known for his viral 2021 project that added USB-C to an iPhone X through hardware modification, Pillonel has now created a snap-on case that brings the modern port to any Lightning-equipped iPhone. You can watch his video below.
New case gives Lightning iPhones a USB-C port
The accessory, sold under the brand “Obsoless,” represents another Pillonel response to planned obsolescence, much like his USB-C-modded iPhone X and AirPods charging case. But the new iPhone case is a commercial product offering users a way to extend the useful life of their devices without requiring a full upgrade. It consists of a two-part case that clamps around compatible iPhones and connects directly to the Lightning port through a precisely aligned connector.
And unlike typical adapters that sometimes fail under load, this case includes a custom circuit board that enables full USB-C functionality including 9V fast charging, data transfer and Apple CarPlay support, Pillonel said.
Pillonel designed a custom latching mechanism inspired by pen clickers and belt buckles, featuring a rotating joint and tactile latch that secures the case without requiring tools. The engineering challenge involved ensuring the USB-C port could handle the power requirements and data speeds that users expect from the modern connector.
Watch Pillonel’s in-depth video about the project
Compatibility and features
The case supports 20 different iPhone models with Lightning ports, spanning from the iPhone SE through the iPhone 14 line. This includes the iPhone 11, 12, 13, and 14 series, as well as the iPhone XS models. The case maintains MagSafe compatibility and supports wireless charging, making it a comprehensive solution for users who want to modernize their devices.
However, there are some limitations. Accessories that draw power from the iPhone, such as wired audio devices, external storage or displays, won’t work with the case. That’s due to power delivery constraints.
Addressing the Lightning-to-USB-C transition
Apple transitioned the iPhone to USB-C with the iPhone 15 series in 2023. But millions of users still rely on Lightning-equipped devices. While Apple continues to support older iPhones with software updates — iOS 26 supports devices back to 2019 — the port difference can create inconvenience as other devices have standardized on USB-C.
The case is priced between $50-60. The first run is sold out, ban another is due in August. Additional colors come in September. You can get email notifications through the Obsoless website for updates on availability.
This solution provides an interesting middle ground for users who want USB-C convenience but aren’t ready to upgrade to a newer iPhone model. The new case makes for one less reason to do so.
Buy from: Obsoless
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
