jib

USB-c versus lighting is not as clear-cut a decision as most posters posit.  In my experience (and that of many others) Lightning is a superior connection for charging phones and other low power devices because the connector is more stable and less likely to damage the port it is connected to. There is a more secure connection, and the connector is more water resistant. USB-C is a two-part connector (sleeve and inside) that can be more easily bent out of shape, and because of the sleeve, it can more easily wiggle in a connector and damage the port resulting in expensive repairs.  So I prefer lightning for my iPhone, AirPods, mouse, trackpad, etc.

On the other hand, USB-C generally has a faster data connection, and therefore is better for devices transferring a large amount of data.

As for the electronic waste issue, I have have many (dozens) of lightning cables and many (albeit fewer) UBB cables. Moving exclusively to one, will inevitably result in my discarding many cables.

I do not think that the EU (or any other government) should mandate specifications for electronic consumer devices. It can stiffle possible improvements or innovations, and is really not the job of government. Apple is far from a monopoly -- they are not even the leading provider of phones.  People can always choose other brands if they want. And governments generally do not have the technical expertise or foresight to make the correct decisions.

The EU law, as written gives Apple until 2025 models to change the port. (It takes effect in November of 2024, but by then Apple will have introduced their 2024 iPhones). I think Apple will switch sooner, but it is not mandated to do so. Indeed if it comes up with phone that charges solely wirelessly, it need not switch at all. (And lightning could continue to be included for data transfer only but I think Apple will adopt a more reasonable solution than that.) 

My opinion only, of course.

I consider this unfortunate.  I have considered getting a Rachio 3 in the past, but lack of HK support means that I will no longer consider it.  

I may have been lucky, but my preorder for a 14 Pro with T-mobile (pre-pre order on Thursday) was completed in less than 2 minutes with absolutely no issues or problems. 

IPhone Pro purple 256k, ordered st 8:05 am, arriving 9/16. AirPods Pro 2 coming 9/23. Site came up at 8;06. Preorder was fairly easy. Mail confirmation of both orders came about 10 minutes later. 

Not included in the story is information such as what percentage of Apple employees belong to Apple Together, nor information about who/how many were surveyed in the 56% are seeking other employment.

I suspect only a small number are included. Apple remains a company that many would like to work for. 

Just my opinion, of course.