Apple launched the iPhone 17 series in September of this year, featuring a USB-C port. This isn't just a charging port, it opens the door to a world of connectivity and accessories that could transform the iPhone into a multifunctional device that goes beyond being a smartphone. In the following lines, we'll explore what you can connect to the iPhone 17's USB-C port.
Charging via USB-C
With the iPhone 17, you'll find an original, high-quality USB-C cable in the box. This cable supports charging only. If you need more, the company sells its own USB-C charging cables separately. However, you can also purchase cheaper USB cables, in various shapes and lengths, from other brands like Anker. With a USB port, you'll now be able to easily charge all your various Apple products, including AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro, as well as your MacBook Pro and iPad.
Note: Not all USB-C cables are created equal. Some support charging only, while others support data transfer. You'll need to make sure you're using a USB-3 cable to take advantage of the impressive transfer speeds available on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, which can transfer data at up to 10 Gbps.
Charging other devices via the iPhone battery
The new iPhone models feature larger batteries than ever, and with the USB-C port, you can use your phone as a portable battery to charge other devices seamlessly and quickly. For example, if your AirPods case is running low on battery, simply connect the case to your phone and it will charge. You can also charge another iPhone by connecting them with a USB-C cable, and the larger battery will automatically charge the other device.
Connecting to external displays
Using the USB Type-C port, you can mirror your iPhone 17's screen to an external display. Use a USB-C to HDMI cable to display your iPhone screen on a 4K TV or monitor with screen mirroring. No need for any additional adapters or cables.
If you plan to use your iPhone for extended periods of time to play games or view content on an external display, you may want to consider the Apple USB-C Digital AV Adapter ($69), which provides a complete solution with a single port. This multi-port dongle connects a display via HDMI for image sharing, while also providing a power port to keep your iPhone charged continuously, as well as an additional USB-C port.
Connect to storage devices
You can connect an external hard drive or SD card to work directly with files from within your smartphone's Files app. In the Pro model, you can record 4K ProRes video at up to 120 frames per second and transfer it to external storage devices, provided you use only a USB-3 cable to take advantage of the maximum transfer speeds of 10 Gbps.
Connect many accessories
The iPhone's USB-C port allows you to connect a variety of accessories, such as wired keyboards, USB-C headphones, and portable microphones. You can also connect an Ethernet cable via a USB-C adapter to ensure a faster and more stable wired internet connection. Another advantage is that the iPhone 17 series supports any wired headphone with a USB-C port, allowing you to use them with your iPhone and other devices like your Mac and iPad without any issues.
Ultimately, the USB-C port on the iPhone 17 is no longer just a traditional charging port; it's a gateway to expanding the phone's capabilities across a range of different uses. Whether you're looking for faster charging and data transfer performance, a greater visual experience via external displays, or if you need to boost your productivity with storage units and other accessories, this port offers unprecedented flexibility. With all these capabilities, Apple appears to be laying the foundation for a new era in its phones, where the iPhone is no longer just a smartphone, but an integrated platform that can be developed and expanded to suit the user's needs.
What do you think of the USB-C port on the iPhone, and do you benefit from it? Tell us in the comments!
Source:
6 comment