Custom iPhone cases released to add USB-C connectivity to older iPhones with Lightning connectors
Apple finally adopted USB Type-C ports across its entire iPhone portfolio as of the iPhone 15 series. However, engineer Ken Pillonel has managed to bridge the gap with older iPhones by creating a case that adds USB Type-C connectivity to older Lightning-equipped models.
For context, Pillonel was the mastermind behind the modded iPhone X with a USB Type-C port that sold for over $85,000 in 2021. Since then, the same engineer has developed replacement parts for the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max (curr. $449.99 on Amazon) in lieu of official alternatives.
As Pillonel explains in the video below, his new iPhone case leverages a custom circuit board to provide fast charging, data transfer and even wired Apple CarPlay functionality over USB Type-C. As far as we can tell, the only limitations lie in Lightning accessories that require power like SSDs. Incidentally, Pillonel has added magnets too for improved MagSafe compatibility.
Currently, the Obsoless iPh0n3 can be ordered for the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, ranging between CHF 43.90 and CHF 49.90 (~$55 to ~$63) before shipping. Apparently, other iPhone models will be added later down the line, too. Please see the Obsoless website for more details.
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