In a move that's been long anticipated by Apple enthusiasts, the tech giant has finally bid farewell to its proprietary Lightning port on its lineup of Mac accessories. The company has unveiled updated versions of the Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, and Magic Trackpad, all now featuring USB-C ports.
This change comes as part of Apple's broader shift towards USB-C across its product range. The transition began with Mac computers in 2018, followed by iPads, and most recently, the iPhone 15 series in 2023. The move to USB-C for these accessories marks another step in Apple's journey to standardize its charging and connectivity options.
What's New?
The updated accessories maintain their familiar designs, with the primary change being the switch from Lightning to USB-C ports. Here's a breakdown of the new offerings:
- Magic Mouse: Now available with a USB-C port, priced at $99
- Magic Keyboard: Updated with USB-C, available in the larger model with a numpad, priced at $199
- Magic Trackpad: Equipped with USB-C, priced at $149
All three accessories are available in black or white color options.
The Controversial Mouse Design Remains
Despite hopes for a redesign, the Magic Mouse's charging port remains on the bottom of the device. This means users still cannot use the mouse while it's charging, a design choice that has been the subject of criticism and memes since 2015.
Availability and Compatibility
These USB-C accessories come standard with the newly announced M4 iMac. For those purchasing the new iMac, color-matched versions of these accessories will be available. However, the color-matched versions are not sold separately.
The standalone USB-C versions of these accessories are expected to be available by October 31st.
The Bigger Picture
This update aligns Apple with the European Union's mandate for a common charger standard by 2024. It also simplifies the charging ecosystem for Apple users, potentially allowing them to use a single cable type across their devices.
As Apple continues to phase out the Lightning port, the iPhone SE remains the last major Apple device still using this connector. It's likely only a matter of time before this too sees an update to USB-C.