Apple Cancels iPhone 14 And iPhone SE For Millions Of Customers

According to Apple, already on December 27, 2024 three Lightning connector models of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation) were removed from sale in 29 countries. The move is driven by EU Directive 2022/2380, requiring a single USB-C charging standard to curb electronic waste.

The EU banned the sale of devices that aren’t compatible with USB-C from December 28, 2024. Apple was forced to take the affected iPhones off the online stores in all 27 EU nations and Switzerland, because of this. The models are not visible in countries with Austria, Germany, and France, while in others like Croatia and Romania purchases point at error pages.

Partially affected is the U.K. Its unique trading arrangements mean that Northern Ireland complies with EU regulations, and the devices aren’t available in Belfast. But England, Scotland and Wales are unaffected for the time being.

The removal increases costs to budget-sensitive buyers. At $429 the iPhone SE provided an entry point that was affordable. The cheapest available iPhone now starts with the iPhone 15, priced at $699. Until the rumored iPhone SE (4th generation) is set to arrive in March 2025, many consumers are left with few low cost options, potentially at a higher price point.

Third party resellers, including Amazon in Germany (where the company faces a tax probe), and Spain, are still offering the remaining stocks despite the EU’s strict enforcement. While these are secondary markets, the discontinued models are a fleeting window for consumers to purchase these.

The directive has little immediate effect outside Europe. Still, other regions could adopt similar legislation, though, as they do so, Apple will be transitioning to USB-C around the world. That means there are no broader ramifications due to the iPhone 14’s expected retirement later this year.

It is the death of the Lightning era with Apple’s shift to USB-C now encompassing all new iPhones, iPads and accessories. Its discontinuation highlights huge demand for affordable options, but it’s in line with Apple’s view that regulatory compliance and technological innovation are its long term responsibilities.