Now there’s no denying Apple wants USB-C to be ubiquitous across its entire portfolio.
Starting today, you can purchase a USB-C charging cable for the Apple Watch. It’s an accessory that includes a magnetic dock for the smartwatch on one end and a USB-C connector on the other. Just connect it to a corresponding port on a wall adapter or laptop, and your Apple Watch will receive power.
The accessory is priced at $29. While picking up an extra charger seems odd, keep in mind all signs are pointing to this standard taking over Apple’s hardware in the next year or so. It’s better to be prepared for when the migration begins.
By the way, Apple’s USB-C charging cable only comes in a 0.3-meter length. Unlike the standard charging cable, there are not 1-meter or 2-m options.
Even though it hasn’t confirmed the decision, Apple has been quietly transitioning away from Lightning and toward USB-C. Several of the latest Mac models are using USB-C ports, and the upcoming iPad Pro (2018) should have one as well.
In 2019, the iPhone models are expected to drop the Lightning port and really push users to adopt the newer standard.
We’ll see how consumers respond next year. Given Apple’s tremendous brand loyalty around the world, the immediate pushback shouldn’t have much of an impact on its business. Also, it’ll help other hardware manufacturers who’ve tried so hard to increase the prevalence of USB-C on phones, tablets, laptops, and more.
