All of Apple's 2017 iPhones will support fast charging via the Lightning port rather than replace it with a USB Type-C port, says a well-reputed analyst. As Apple fans are eagerly waiting for the iPhone 8 and other iPhone models rumored for this year, a recent report stirred some controversy. More specifically, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, March 1 that Apple would ditch the Lightning port in favor of a USB Type-C, which would make the new iPhones incompatible with older accessories. Trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI, however, is refuting such claims, coming up with an alternate theory. Apple will still offer fast charging with its 2017 iPhones, but by tweaking the underlying power management technologies rather than replacing the Lightning port altogether. As AppleInsider reports, Kuo said in a research note on Thursday that Apple will likely employ "Type-C Power Delivery" technology for all 2017 iPhone models. The research note specifically contradicts the WSJ report that claimed the iPhone 8 would lose the Lightning port in favor of the USB-C port gracing the most recent MacBooks. Kuo may not have an impeccable record for his predictions, but he's been right on most occasions and the WSJ report seemed unlikely to begin with. First of all, replacing the connector type altogether would bring more disadvantages than advantages at this point and the faster charging and data transfers associated with USB-C can be achieved for the Lightning port as well. According to the analyst, Apple can combine the best of both worlds by integrating the underlying technology into the Lightning port to offer fast charging. Kuo does highlight, however, that it will be crucial for Apple to get it right when it comes to the safety and stability of the data transmission during fast charging. Apple will likely tap Texas Instruments for power management and Cypress for delivery chips, he adds. The top-of-the-line iPhone 8 could in fact rock even faster charging, says Kuo, because of a special two-cell L-shaped design for the battery pack. Nevertheless, all three iPhone models expected to hit the scene this year should deliver power perks similar to USB-C. Based on recent leaks and reports, this year Apple will release one iPhone with a major design overhaul, sporting a 5.8-inch OLED display and a bezel-free design. This would be the top model, likely launching as the iPhone 8. In addition, Apple is also expected to release two other iPhones that would be just iterative upgrades for the iPhone 7 line. These purported handsets are rumored to launch as the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus. Aside from the three new 2017 iPhones, Apple may also spice up its existing lineup by introducing a red iPhone 7 and a 128 GB iPhone SE. Keep in mind that it's all based on rumors and speculation at this point, so make sure to take all reports with a grain of salt. As always, we'll keep you posted as soon as we learn more.
