Lane 0 and 1 may swap in IC of device connector (lanes don't swap if the accessory identification chip is connected to the ID0 pin)
Lightning is a proprietary computer bus and power connector created and designed by Apple Inc. Introduced on September 12, 2012 (2012-09-12), to replace its predecessor, the 30-pin dock connector. The Lightning connector is used to connect Apple mobile devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods to host computers, external monitors, cameras, USB battery chargers, and other peripherals. Using 8 pins instead of 30, Lightning is much smaller than its predecessor, which was integrated with devices like the iPhone 4 and the iPad 2. The male Lightning connector is symmetrical (same pins on either side), so it can be inserted into a female Lightning port in either orientation. The male plug is indented on each side to match up with corresponding points inside the female port to retain the connection.[1]
History
The Lightning connector was introduced on September 12, 2012 (2012-09-12), as an upgrade to the 30-pin dock connector. It would soon be integrated with all new hardware and devices that were to be announced at the same event.[2] The first compatible devices were the iPhone 5, the iPod Touch (5th generation), and the iPod Nano (7th generation).[3] The iPad (4th generation) and the iPad Mini (1st generation) were added as Lightning devices in October 2012.[4][5]
On November 25, 2012, Apple acquired the "Lightning" trademark in Europe from Harley-Davidson. Apple was given a partial transfer of the Lightning trademark, suggesting that Harley-Davidson likely retained the rights to use the name for motorcycle-related products.[6][7] Apple is the sole proprietor of the trademark and copyrights for the designs and specifications of the Lightning connector.
The iPad Pro, released in 2015, features the first Lightning connector supporting USB 3.0 host.[8] The only accessory that supports USB 3.0 is the new camera adapter. Normal USB-A - Lightning cables are still USB 2.0.
On October 30, 2018, Apple announced that their new range of iPad Pro models will replace Lightning with USB-C.[9]
In January 2020, the EU commission proposed laws to standardize charger ports. And in September 2021 the EU made a proposal that all smartphone manufacturers are required to support USB-C, in order to meet frustrations of EU consumers regarding being required to buy additional chargers and the E-waste that results from that. Commentators say that rule will impact Apple most heavily. [10] Apple has stated concerns that this will "harm consumers in Europe and around the world."[11]
Lightning is an 8-pin connector that carries a digital signal. Unlike the Apple 30 pin connector it replaces (and USB Type A or B connectors), the Lightning connector can be inserted either face up or face down. Each pin on the reverse side of the connector is connected to its directly opposite twin on the other side. Part of the processor's job is to route the power and data signals correctly whichever way up the connector is inserted.[12]
Apple offers various adapters that allow the Lightning connector to be used with other interfaces, such as 30-pin, USB, HDMI, VGA, and SD cards. The Lightning to 30-pin adapter supports only a limited subset of the available 30-pin signals: USB data, USB charging, and analog audio output (via the DAC inside of the adapter[13]).
Official Lightning connectors contain an authentication chip that made it difficult for third-party manufacturers to produce compatible accessories without being approved by Apple;[14] The authentication scheme has been cracked, however.[12]
The plug measures 6.7 mm by 1.5 mm.
Comparisons with microUSB
Apple has not publicly discussed microUSB, but various tech news websites state that Lightning might have been used instead of microUSB because of: its compatibility with docks and speaker systems;[15] the ability to insert the cable in either direction for user convenience;[16] Apple wishing to maintain control over supply chain of accessories;[17] the ability to charge a licensing fee; and the mechanical weakness of USB connectors.[16] The optional supplemental standard USB On-The-Go allows USB devices to do this.[18]
On April 10, 2015, Apple announced a new line of MacBooks that featured USB-C. USB-C has similarities with Lightning, and advantages over microUSB. USB-C, like Lightning, but unlike its predecessor microUSB, can be plugged in either direction. USB-C and Lightning are not interchangeable as they are entirely different pin-outs, protocols and connectors.
Devices using Lightning connectors
Lightning to 3.5 mm headphone jack adapter (in packaging card)
The following first-party and third-party devices use Lightning connectors:
Many reviewers have criticized Apple for continuing to include a Lightning port on their products instead of moving to a more modern, universal port such as USB-C.[21] Apple has stated that they continue to use Lightning because replacing it "would create an unprecedented amount of electronic waste".[22][23] Some reviewers, like senior tech correspondent Lisa Eadicicco, have speculated that it is simply because Apple wants to continue selling its proprietary chargers and accessories.[24]
MFi Certification: Apple introduced the MFi Program to increase the quality of the third-party accessories and consumer confidence.[25][26] Many users have seen increases in quality with MFi products due to the certification.
Black 5th Pin: Users have seen a black pin. Some users have seen the cable stop charging when a pin turns black.[27]
