Apple faced pressure from the EU to switch from its Lightning connector to USB-C in iPhones. People questioned why it took until the iPhone 15 for this change.

Speculation suggested Apple prioritized profits from its Lightning accessories over user convenience.

Concerns arose about needing certified USB-C cables for the iPhone 15, causing an uproar, including among EU officials. Despite worries, existing USB-C cables can charge the iPhone 15, but caution is advised.

Generic USB-C Cable Melted Charging the iPhone 15 Pro Max

A user of the iPhone 15 Pro Max experienced a generic USB-C cable melting in the phone's port, rendering it unusable. This is a warning: use Apple-provided or trusted USB-C cables to avoid potential issues.

Redditor NoisilyMarvellous shared an image displaying an iPhone 15 Pro Max with remnants of a melted USB-C charging cable protruding from the port. The user recounted an alarming experience: the phone heated up significantly during an overnight charge, causing burns on their finger upon touch.

The removal of the charger revealed melted plastic, burn marks on the phone's body, and the USB-C port's metal part fused into the device.

Seeking solutions, the Redditor questioned the cause-the phone, the cable, or the plug-highlighting their use of Optimized Charging without AppleCare coverage.

Further exploration in comments disclosed the user's reliance on a generic Amazon-sourced USB-C cable and a travel adapter. Notably, the phone was unattended during the incident, charging overnight as the owner slept.

Despite lacking specifics about the charging setup, the user's choice of a generic cable drew criticism from commentators. Speculations pointed to the cable as the culprit behind the overheating.

An update from the Redditor indicated the removal of the melted plug, yet the port's interior damage prevented charging via cable.

iPhone Charging Safety: Importance of Certified Cables & Risks of Subpar Alternatives

Apple strongly advocates using its proprietary or MFi-certified charging cables for iPhones due to elevated safety standards. While these cables might seem pricier than alternatives, they ensure a higher level of safety. The incident where a phone owner suffered a burn highlights the potential risks of using subpar cables.

With the transition to USB-C charging in the iPhone 15 series, some users might opt for cheaper, non-certified USB-C cables from their collection, assuming compatibility.

Despite Apple providing a robust cable with the phone, users often seek additional cables for convenience at other locations like offices, leading to the temptation of using substandard cords.

However, this practice is discouraged for safety reasons.

Certified third-party chargers bear an MFi badge on their packaging, indicating adherence to Apple's standards. The damaged iPhone 15 Pro Max in the image may pose safety concerns, potentially affecting its usability with a wired charger.

Advisably, seeking professional assistance at an Apple Store or certified repair shop is recommended rather than attempting self-fixes due to the uncertain safety status of the device. Using a MagSafe wireless charger remains a safer alternative for charging.

The shift from Lightning to USB-C for iPhones prompted scrutiny and concerns about safety. Apple's delayed change raised questions about profit prioritization over user convenience.

Incidents like a melted USB-C cable underscore the importance of certified cables for iPhone 15 charging safety. Opting for trusted accessories is vital to prevent mishaps.