Apple has stopped selling the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation) in 29 countries, including parts of the U.K., due to new EU regulations.
These rules require all devices to use USB-C charging ports instead of Lightning connectors. The change went into effect on Dec. 28, 2024, and affects customers in the EU and Northern Ireland.
The iPhone SE, which was priced at $429, was the most affordable iPhone model. Now, the cheapest iPhone available is the iPhone 15, starting at $699. This makes it more expensive for customers who were hoping to buy an affordable iPhone.
While third-party sellers like Amazon still offer these models in some regions, Apple has removed them from its official stores. The new rules are part of the EU’s effort to reduce electronic waste by standardizing charging ports.
Apple initially opposed the change but has since switched to USB-C with the iPhone 15. The iPhone SE may return in March 2025, but it may not be as cheap as the older model.
Other countries may follow the EU’s lead, but it’s unlikely that similar rules will take effect before the iPhone 14 is discontinued globally, which is expected to happen in fall 2025.
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