
Give Your Old iPhone a USB-C Upgrade with This Special Case
Apple has always done things its own way, especially when it comes to connectors. I remember when we were all stuck with those clunky 30-pin docks. Then came the Lightning era, which was an improvement, but still proprietary. But now, thanks to some well-aimed pressure, Apple has finally made the jump to USB-C, starting with iPads and then the iPhone 15.
It's great that we can use the same cable for almost everything now, right? However, what if you've got an older iPhone that still works perfectly, but you're tired of dealing with Lightning cables? Well, that's where Ken Pillonel comes in. This engineer is all about modernizing older iPhones with custom-fit cases that add a USB-C port.
Pillonel didn't just jump into this project overnight. He first experimented with USB-C solutions for AirPods. After that, he decided to improve his unique iPhone USB-C design, aiming for something that could be mass-produced. It's this kind of dedication that catches my attention, and I wanted to share it with you.
He figured out how to make the USB-C cable charge at full speed, even when reversed, using some clever circuitry. With the PCB (printed circuit board) design sorted out, he focused on creating a simple case to hold it all. He even managed to add a few extras, like a spot for a spare SIM card and a place for a lanyard.
The finished product supports fast charging, data transfers, and even works with MagSafe! The only downside is that you can't use the USB-C port to charge other devices using your phone's battery. If you ask me, that's a small price to pay for the convenience of USB-C.
So, if you're trying to extend the life of your iPhone 14 (or 13, or 12…), check out Pillonel's store. He has options for the last few generations of iPhones. Remember to check the details for your specific iPhone model, as some are out of stock or have specific shipping times.
Source: AndroidAuthority