| Cult of Mac

No, Apple didn’t change the iPhone connector to make money

By

iPhone 15 and USB-C cable with money falling in the background
It's not about money this time.
Photo: Apple/Public Domain

No, Apple didn’t change the Lightning connector on the iPhone 15 to make more money selling you new cables and dongles. It’s a common conspiracy theory that Apple switches the connector all the time for lining their pockets, but it doesn’t hold up to scrutiny.

First of all, Apple changes the connector very rarely; this is only the second occurrence in 16 years. Secondly, Apple is actually giving up money to make the switch happen. Not that there’s much money to be made selling Lightning cables, anyway. And all that aside, it’s out of Apple’s hands — USB-C is European Union law.

Here’s how the new, smaller iPhone box measures up to its predecessor

By

Does anyone really need another iPhone charger?
Here's what removing the iPhone charger means for the box size.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

This year’s iPhone 12 and 12 Pro will be the first new iPhones not to come with EarPods or a charger in the box.

During Apple’s October keynote it said that removing these components lets it reduce carbon emissions from shipping by packing way more boxes onto shipping pallets. Now, thanks to a comparison posted by Apple analyst Neil Cybart, we have an idea what that means in terms of the overall box footprint.

Pick the perfect charger now on sale for all your devices [Deals]

By

Memorial Day - Charging Deals
Take your pick of four of the best deals on the best charging solutions in the Cult of Mac Store.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

We know what devices we want and need, but not until we have them do we realize our charging situation is lacking. So just in time for Memorial Day, we’ve rounded up four great charging solutions that can address anyone’s needs.

Pick up a full kit of MFi-certified charging gear for $25 [Deals]

By

MFi Certified Sleek Canvas Complete Charging Collection
This kit includes wall chargers, portable battery, and a reinforced Lightning cable so you'll never have to worry about losing juice.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Staying charged on the go takes a lot of effort, and a lot of gear. From backup batteries to adapters to cables that won’t break after just a few uses, that can all add up. Luckily, this kit includes everything you’ll need to reliably juice up your phone or tablet, so you can travel without worrying about your next charge.

Best Apple Watch chargers and charging stands for any model

By

best-apple-watch-charging-stands
This brilliant stand from Elago is one of many on our list.
Photo: Elago

Have a brand-new Apple Watch on the way? You’ll want some sweet accessories to go with it. A stellar charging stand that keeps your pricey wearable out of the way while you’re not wearing it is a must.

Here are some of the finest money can buy today. Whether you want high-end materials that look good anywhere, or stands that charge all your Apple devices at once, we’ve got you covered.

Check out our best charging stands roundup for the newest Apple Watch lineup.