In 2023, Apple ditched the iPhone’s Lightning port in favor of USB-C. There are many benefits to this change, but our favorite is the fact that the iPhone 15 and beyond can be used to charge other devices.
The iPhone’s battery isn’t big enough to refuel larger devices like iPads or MacBooks, but if something smaller like AirPods or an Apple Watch is running out of juice, you can share some of your iPhone’s precious battery to top them up.
Apple says this trick will work on any small device that supports USB Power Delivery at up to 4.5 watts, not just Apple gadgets. It can even be used to charge a second iPhone, which could save the day if a friend’s battery is about to die while you’re out – assuming you’ve got enough power to spare.
The charging cable that comes bundled with the iPhone 15 and 16 series has a USB-C connector on both ends, and can be used to charge any compatible USB-C device.
For older iPhones and AirPods, you’ll need a USB-C to Lightning cable.
For Apple Watch, you’ll need a magnetic charging cable with USB-C, or else a USB-C to USB adapter.
You can find all of the above cables at the Apple Store, but just between you and me, you can often find quality alternatives from third-party companies at a fraction of the cost.