The renowned technology company Apple has taken a major step by prohibiting the sale of three iPhone models, which include the iPhone 14, across several nations in Europe. The models impacted are the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation). Consequently, these gadgets have been eliminated from Apple’s online store in a multitude of European countries.
This prohibition goes beyond online sales; buyers will also be unable to acquire these iPhones from traditional retail outlets. Apple’s action is a response to a directive established by the European Union concerning the use of the Lightning connector.
A significant motivation for this choice was the EU’s decree enacted in 2022, mandating that smartphones and select electronic gadgets sold within its 27 member territories must feature a USB Type-C port for charging purposes. This initiative aimed at minimizing electronic waste, and despite Apple’s initial resistance to this regulation, the company ultimately acquiesced. Since the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation) do not include USB-C ports, their sales have been suspended.
As a result, Apple is working on liquidating its stock in various nations. The company has ceased the sales of these iPhones in Austria, Finland, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and others. Notably, even though Switzerland is not part of the EU, the sale of these three iPhone models has likewise been banned there. Furthermore, customers in Northern Ireland will also lose access to these devices.
In the meantime, new details regarding the iPhone 17 Air have surfaced, revealing information about its pricing and production. This model is anticipated to be Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet and is scheduled for release in September of the upcoming year. Several reports have outlined features and design elements of the phone. Moreover, there are signs of Apple’s plans to develop a foldable iPhone and iPad.
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