Early iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro leaks claim Apple will make big design changes in 2023. And now, for arguably the biggest, the company no longer has a choice.

In an industry-changing move, the European Parliament has overwhelmingly voted in favor of a new law which requires all consumer electronic devices to use the USB-C port by the end of 2024. And with rivals already onboard, the law’s primary target is Apple and its AirPods and iPhone ranges.

Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro

“By the end of 2024, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port,” explained the European Parliament in a press release. “From spring 2026, the obligation will extend to laptops. The new law, adopted by plenary on Tuesday with 602 votes in favour, 13 against and 8 abstentions, is part of a broader EU effort to reduce e-waste and to empower consumers to make more sustainable choices.”

The new law also extends to earbuds, headphones, headsets, handheld videogame consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, and portable navigation systems with a power delivery of up to 100 watts. The exception is wearables — smartwatches and fitness trackers — which were deemed too small to require the port.

So the Apple Watch escapes, but Apple’s two most popular ranges do not. Ironically, Apple has previously justified its ongoing use of Lightning on environmental grounds, claiming it will slow down “the introduction of beneficial innovations in charging standards, including those related to safety and energy efficiency."

The European Parliament vote suggests few were swayed by this argument.

It is the beginning of the end for Apple's Lightning port

Apple still has the option to retain Lightning ports outside the European Union. But the financial benefits of the proprietary port would likely be outweighed by the complexity split production would bring to Apple’s supply chain. More countries also look set to follow the European Parliament’s example.

So when can we expect the first USB-C iPhones? The rumor mill already seems convinced that iPhone 15 Pro and Ultra models will already adopt the port in 2023. And where iPhones go, AirPods follow.

Either way, Lightning’s days are numbered. So if you’re considering buying a new iPhone or AirPods, think hard about whether you want a device with a port headed for the scrapheap. Then again, if you’re just holding out in the hope of Touch ID returning, don’t bother.