Apple introduced USB-C ports to the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro at its fall 2023 event. The Pro models were touted as being able to achieve data transfer speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second through the new port.
However, Apple noted that users would not reach these maximum speeds out of the box, as the company is bundling a USB 2.0 cable capable of only 480 megabits per second transfer rates. To unlock the full potential of the iPhone 15 Pro's USB 3 speeds, Apple stated an "optional USB 3 cable" would need to be purchased separately.
In promotional materials, Apple specified the new USB controller inside the iPhone 15 Pro allows for "much higher transfer speeds and video output up to 4K at 60 fps HDR for the first time." Despite this, the phones ship with slower USB 2.0 connectivity as the default.
While third parties may offer compatible USB 3 cables in the future, Apple currently sells a Thunderbolt 4 cable on its website for $69 that supports the faster 10Gbps speeds. Accessories like higher wattage charging cables and a USB-C to Lightning dongle are also newly available from Apple but require additional spending beyond the phone purchase.
In sum, though the iPhone 15 Pro models gained a useful USB-C port, users looking to take full advantage of the phone's increased USB 3 data transfer potential with accessories will need to budget for an optional upgrade cable not included in the box.
