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USB-C has been on every Mac since 2015. Last year, Apple started not including the power brick to reduce packaging and to save the environment. To most people, it's not that big of an issue since they've likely had older iPhones and can use the same charger or have their own USB Power hub. If you've never had an iPhone then you'll need to purchase a power brick Answer from nomadicposter604 on reddit.com
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uni
uniaccessories.com › home › blog
About the Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable - uni
November 1, 2021 - However, you should know that the ... charging, juice up 50% in just 30 minutes, use the USB-C to lightning charging cable with a higher watt charger (higher than 20W for iPhone)....
Discussions

USB-C to Lightning cable: Connecting iPhone to USB-C peripherals - Ask Different
The iPhone 11 Pro/Pro Max come with USB-C to Lightning cables for fast charging, and the regular iPhone 11 supports them. Regular Lightning supports HDMI output via an Apple dongle. Does the USB-... More on apple.stackexchange.com
🌐 apple.stackexchange.com
November 24, 2019
How do I use a "USB C to Lightning Cable"?
USB-C has been on every Mac since 2015. Last year, Apple started not including the power brick to reduce packaging and to save the environment. To most people, it's not that big of an issue since they've likely had older iPhones and can use the same charger or have their own USB Power hub. If you've never had an iPhone then you'll need to purchase a power brick More on reddit.com
🌐 r/iphonehelp
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August 1, 2021
The new iphone comes with a USB C to lightning cable but no brick.
That's the main issue, lightning to USB-C instead of C to C. Every MacBook and the iPad Air+Pro are USB-C yet they can't make the iPhone USB-C. I get their reasoning as many people are invested in lightning, but at least having the iPhone Pro models with C could have been very doable. I wanted an iOS phone but it would be the ONLY device I have that needs its own cable if I bought it. My money will continue to go to Android. More on reddit.com
🌐 r/UsbCHardware
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October 13, 2020
Household with both lighting and usb-c iPhone - how are you guys doing?
2 different cables everywhere. More on reddit.com
🌐 r/iphone
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April 8, 2024
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ALOGIC
alogic.co › home › blog-post › blog-post
Perks of USB-C to Lightning cable for fast charging & data transfer
June 18, 2025 - This certification ensures that the cable meets Apple's standards for performance and safety. Length: Depending on your needs, cable length can be a crucial factor. Shorter cables are great for portability, while longer cables provide more flexibility in where you can charge and use your devices. How to Use USB-C to Lightning Cables?
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Fandom
apple.fandom.com › wiki › USB-C_to_Lightning_Cable
USB-C to Lightning Cable
Please check your connection, disable any ad blockers, or try using a different browser.
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Apple Support
support.apple.com › en-us › 111752
About the Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable - Apple Support
Certain iPhone models are fast-charge ... USB-C to Lightning cable. Sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch or import your photos when connected to a USB-C port on your Mac or PC. Charge a Siri Remote when it's connected to a USB-C port on a Mac, PC, or USB-C power adapter.
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Anker
anker.com › home › blog center › cables › tech guide 2025: what is usb-c to lightning cable?
What Is USB-C to Lightning Cable? Pro Connection Solution - Anker US
December 24, 2024 - You can use these cables for direct audio and video transfers between your Apple devices and your computer or display screens with a USB-C port. ... If you're on the move and your iPhone battery is running low, you can use your power bank with ...
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CableCreation
cablecreation.com › products › usb-c-to-lightning-cable-6ft
USB C to Lightning fast charger cable | CableCreation
USB C to Lightning Cable MFi Certified
【Apple MFi Certified】MFi certification and strict quality testing ensure your iOS devices are charged safely and 100% compatibility of the whole iOS system. 【18W PD Fast Charging】Charge your iPhone from 1% to 50% in just 30mins【Reliable Data Transfer】Up to 480Mbps【Ultra Durable & Sturdy】Special Strain Relief Design + Soft TPE Jacket + Nickel Plated Connector
Price   $16.79
Find elsewhere
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Lifewire
lifewire.com › usb-c-vs-lightning-5206813
USB-C vs. Lightning: The Cable Clash That Could Change Your Charge Game
June 2, 2025 - Most iPads now use USB-C (only the 9th generation iPad remains using Lightning), and all Mac laptops use (or can use) USB-C to charge and carry data. ... Native power support for 100W/3A and up to 240W/5A. Supports USB Power Delivery for fast charging. ... Native power support for 12W/2.4A. Fast charging requires USB-C to Lightning cable and 20W or higher power adapter.
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VentionTech
ventiontech.com › home › blog › blog
Lightning vs USB C Cable: The Ultimate Comparison
October 11, 2023 - When choosing between these cable types, consider your device's specifications and requirements to make the most informed decision. Note: The specifications of USB-C and Lightning cables can vary depending on the manufacturer and device implementation. Both USB-C and Lightning connectors have their strengths and weaknesses regarding connections and compatibility. USB-C is a universal standard supported by many devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. With USB-C ports becoming increasingly common, you can often use the same cable for multiple devices.
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Quora
quora.com › What-will-happen-if-you-connect-an-iPhone-lightning-cable-and-the-other-end-to-a-type-C-phone
What will happen if you connect an iPhone lightning cable and the other end to a type C phone? - Quora
Answer (1 of 5): Tried it just now I can say it works, the Android is proving power to the iPhone. My dumb self I ust bought the new iphone 14 and forgot to buy the power charger… Night comes and I need to charge the damn thing, only to find I don’t own a charger with usb-c! Tried this and it’s w...
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4XEM
4xem.com › blogs › blog › whats-the-difference-between-usb-c-and-lightning
USB-C vs Lightning: Key Differences Explained – 4XEM
September 14, 2023 - In this blog post, we'll explore ... and Lightning connectors to help you understand the implications of this change and what it means for iPhone users. USB-C: USB-C is an industry-standard connector used by many devices across various platforms, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and accessories. Its widespread adoption means you can use the same cable to charge ...
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Amazon
amazon.com › Lightning-Certified-Delivery-Charging-Compatible › dp › B0BVQ5ZGN8
Amazon.com: USB C to Lightning Cable 3FT 2Pack [Apple MFi Certified], Power Delivery iPhone Cables Type C iPhone Charger Cord Fast Charging Compatible iPhone 14 13 12 11 Pro Max X XS XR 8 7 6s Plus SE : Electronics
APFEN iphone charging cables support high-speed power delivery Charging, can charge the iPhone 12/13/14 up to 50% in 30mins. Note:You need to use 20W or above USB-C Power Adapter to achieve Power Delivery Fast Charging.If you use less than 20W adapter, these usb c to lightning cables only support standard charge.
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PITAKA
ipitaka.com › blogs › news › micro-usb-vs-type-c-vs-lightning-cables
Micro USB vs. Type C vs. Lightning Cables: Everything You Need to Know – PITAKA
Apple would like you to believe that you should only use their cables, but hang on though, what if you want to use the Lightning cables made by other manufacturers? Make sure that the cable has passed the MFi (Made for iPhone/iPod/iPad) certification tests, and you are good to go. The USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is a 24-pin USB connector system that connects to both hosts and devices, replacing various USB-B and USB-A connectors and cables, which is meant to be future-proofed.
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No, plugging your Lightning to USB-C cable into a display with USB-C inputs would not allow the iPhone to send video to the display. The Lightning to HDMI adapter actually has a small computer (as in small enough to fit in a single chip) inside to do the HDMI conversion. Here's someone that tore one of those adapters apart: https://boingboing.net/2019/07/29/teardown-of-apples-lightning.html

If you were to connect your iPhone to most USB-C docks then it's not likely to do much but maybe charge your phone. Most USB-C docks rely on the connected host to provide a DisplayPort signal, and the dock has a chip in it (perhaps much like that Lightning dock) to provide the HDMI conversion. Maybe a dock like you describe exists, I just have my doubts.

The Lightning to USB-C cable I have, which is not from Apple, can only charge my iPhone and provide USB 2.0 data to and from my MacBook. I tried plugging in different USB-C devices and it doesn't appear to support attaching anything else.

This brings my own question to this answer and I wonder if an Apple Lightning to USB-C cable be able to do more. It’s advertised as a charging cable and not a high speed data cable so I wonder about USB 3.0 speeds to my MacBook Pro for things like being an internet hot spot, or move files back and forth.

I presume at some speed it would allow me to connect USB-C drive and transfer files.

I'm rather disappointed with the Lightning to USB-C cable I have. I was expecting far more than just a USB 2.0 cable. I was not expecting HDMI out of such a cable, just something more than 12 watts charging and faster USB data than 480 Mbps.

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> Want to improve this answer? Add details and include citations to explain why this answer is correct. Answers without enough detail may be edited or deleted.

I think you can use the USB-C to USB Adapter which lets you connect iOS devices and many of your standard USB accessories to a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) enabled Mac and other devices.

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USB Memory Direct
usbmemorydirect.com › blog › uncategorized › usb-c vs. lightning: understanding the differences
USB-C vs. Lightning: Understanding the Differences
April 5, 2024 - The easiest way to identify a Lightning charger is to look for the eight-pin connector located near the end piece. The main difference between the USB-C and lightning formats is the list of devices each supports. Lightning cables are only meant to work with Apple devices, whereas USB-C connectors have a universal utility.
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Vegerpower
vegerpower.com › blog center - veger › lightning cable vs. usb-c: which is better?
Lightning Cable vs. USB-C: Which Is Better?
May 20, 2025 - The USB-C connector is compact, symmetrical (reversible), and capable of handling power and data transfer at much higher speeds compared to earlier USB connectors. It supports USB 3.1 or even USB 4.0 speeds, meaning it can deliver fast data transfer and rapid charging capabilities, making it a powerful choice for modern smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. A common question that arises in discussions of these two cable types is: Is Lightning the same as USB-C? The simple answer is no. While both cables are used for charging and data transfer, they have distinct physical connectors, different data transfer speeds, and various compatibility aspects.
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YUXUN
yuxun.com › how-to-connect-usb-c-to-lightning-cable.html
How To Connect Usb C To Lightning Cable? - YUXUN
March 1, 2025 - As we've explored in this guide, understanding how to properly connect and use these cables can significantly enhance your device experience. Remember to always choose high-quality, certified cables and take proper care of them to ensure longevity and optimal performance. With the right knowledge and tools, you can keep your devices charged and connected, ready to tackle whatever the day brings. USB-C to Lightning cables are compatible with a wide range of Apple devices, including iPhones (iPhone 5 and later), iPads, iPod Touch, AirPods, and some accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse.
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Snapchat
snapchat.com › topic › how-to-use-usb-c-to-lightning-cable
How To Use Usb C To Lightning Cable on Snapchat: Trending Videos & More
November 14, 2025 - Discover your favorite Spotlight videos related to How To Use Usb C To Lightning Cable.
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Apple Support
support.apple.com › en-us › 105099
Charge and connect with the USB-C connector on your iPhone - Apple Support
October 31, 2025 - If you have another device with a USB-C connector, connect the device to your iPhone with a USB-C cable, such as the one included with your iPhone. To charge a device that has a Lightning connector, connect the device to your iPhone using an Apple USB-C to Lightning cable.
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Apple Support
support.apple.com › en-us › 117383
Use a wired connection to transfer data to a new iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
November 6, 2025 - To migrate data from an iPhone 14 or earlier to an iPhone 15 or later using a wired connection, use a USB-C to Lightning Cable. Connect the USB-C to Lightning Cable to the charging ports of your previous iPhone and your new iPhone.