Apple Removes Lightning Devices from European Stores to Follow New EU Rules

Apple has stopped selling its iPhone SE, iPhone 14 series, and other Lightning-based devices in Europe.

This move comes as part of the European Union’s new rules that require devices to use USB-C for charging, starting today. The goal is to reduce e-waste and make the market less confusing for consumers.

A check by The Verge found that the iPhone SE, iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and the Lightning-based Magic Keyboard are no longer available in Apple’s online stores in The Netherlands, France, Norway, and Germany.

However, these devices are still being sold in the US and other countries outside the EU.

The EU’s new law, called Directive 2022/2380, requires all devices sold in the EU to have a USB-C charging port.

It also sets rules for fast charging, separates charging bricks from device sales, and improves labeling so consumers can better understand the power needs of their devices.

A new iPhone SE with USB-C is expected to be released in 2025.