Lightning
Apple Lightning (USB 2.0 data class)
Apple phone and accessory path before USB-C on iPhone. No longer the flagship phone default after the USB-C transition.
Data speed480 Mbps
Max power18 W
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LightningApple Lightning (USB 2.0 data class)
Apple phone and accessory path before USB-C on iPhone. No longer the flagship phone default after the USB-C transition.
Specification
- Form factor
- Lightning
- Specification
- Apple Lightning (USB 2.0 data class)
- Max data
- 480 Mbps
- Max power
- 18 W
- Pins
- 8
- Reversible
- Yes
- Introduced
- 2012
- Cable cost
- (~$22)
Apple and third-party Lightning cables; MFi premium varies. (as of 2026) Source: Manual US retail band for a ~1 m cable that supports this data tier (2026). Not host port BOM cost; not no-name bulk bin fantasy.
Status
Kept so older equipment still works. Rarely the starting point for new products.
Capabilities
- Data - This tier is rated for more than charge-only use.
- Power Delivery - Higher power is negotiated, not fixed at a few watts.
Notes
Not a USB-IF connector form factor. Included so historical iPhone flagships can be compared fairly. Wired data is USB 2.0 class; charging protocols vary by accessory.
Seen on products
Flagship and reference products in this knowledge base that map a port to this tier.
| Product | Maker | Year | Port |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 Pro | Apple | 2021 | LightningPrimary |