14 uses for your iPhone's USB-C port beyond charging

Apple moved the iPhone from Lightning to USB-C starting with the iPhone 15, and every current model — including the iPhone 15, 16 and 17 families — now uses USB-C. One immediate benefit is fewer cables: a single USB-C lead can serve an iPhone, iPad, MacBook, headphones, camera gear and power banks, cutting clutter at home and while traveling.

USB-C turns an iPhone into a compact workstation and media hub. Plug in keyboards, mice or trackpads without drivers, connect external displays via HDMI or USB-C adapters, and attach USB-C microphones, MIDI instruments, DACs and professional audio interfaces for cleaner recording and playback.

Wired controllers also reduce input lag compared with Bluetooth. The port improves storage and file handling: standard iPhones operate at USB 2 speeds while Pro models support USB 3 data transfer up to 10Gbps, which speeds large transfers.

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