Apple Pulls iPhone Models from EU Market Amid New Charging Regulations
As of today, the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE have been entirely removed from Apple’s online shop in numerous EU nations. This decision is driven by a new regulation set to take effect shortly that mandates all newly sold smartphones with wired charging capabilities to feature a USB-C port within the EU.
The three iPhone variants are no longer found in Apple’s online inventory for countries such as Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden—not to mention certain other nations that are part of the EU’s single market framework like Switzerland.
Implications of Upcoming Regulations
The regulation is slated to come into full effect on December 28 and encompasses all individual units placed on sale post this date—even if they represent older models. While every model within the iPhone 15 and upcoming iPhone 16 series comes with USB-C ports designed for wired charging needs, both the iPhone 14 and its Plus version alongside the current version of the iPhone SE continue to utilize Lightning ports.
The UK’s exit from the EU in 2020 means it is not subject to these new regulations; however, Northern Ireland remains affected since it continues participating in the single market established by the EU.
Transition Period for Remaining Stock
Last week marked Apple’s initiation of removing these three models from its sales catalog across Europe. Some additional countries will still see a phase-out as remaining stock dwindles over time. Availability at physical locations such as Apple Stores and authorized partners may vary significantly during this transition period. In general terms though—barring specific rare occurrences—the devices previously mentioned are largely withdrawn from sale by Apple in Europe.
A Look Ahead: Future Plans for New Devices
An announcement regarding a fourth-generation iteration of an iPhone SE utilizing a USB-C port is anticipated for March; thus this model should re-enter availability swiftly across Europe soon after. Notably too—the discontinuation timeline for both versions of last year’s models would likely have occurred around September had it not been influenced by these incoming regulations; hence their sales conclusion arrives roughly nine months earlier than expected within Europe.
