Charging your iPhone with the new MacBook Air is a little different than it used to be. Like the newer MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air only has Thunderbolt 3 ports (also known as USB-C). That is, you cannot start charging by simply plugging the cable that came with your iPhone into the new MacBook Air. You will need a different cable or adapter. Here are some solutions to make it easier to charge your iPhone with your MacBook Air..
The products used in this guide:
- Amazon: The USB-C Adapter to USB Adapter ($ 18)
- Apple: The USB-C to Lightning Cable ($ 19)
Solutions A: USB-C Adapter to USB Adapter
Nothing is simpler than a single-use USB-A to USB-C adapter, and nothing is more reliable than getting one straight from Apple. With this $ 18 adapter, you'll never have to worry about whether or not it will be supported by future updates or not. By supporting syncing and charging, it meets all your basic needs from iPhone to MacBook Air. Then, since it's a standard USB port, you can also use other accessories with your MacBook when you charge your iPhone. It is therefore very practical.
Solutions B: The USB-C to Lightning Cable
If you're worried about losing a small adapter, you can use a USB-C to Lightning cable. This cable allows you to directly and easily connect your iPhone to the Thunderbolt 3 port on your new MacBook Air..
Solutions C: Third-party adapters and cables
You don't have to use Apple's USB-C adapters. There are many high quality MFi adapters on the market. Whether you want a multi-port adapter, a single-use adapter, or even a replacement port, there's plenty to choose from.
That being said, like with many Apple products, purchasing a third-party accessory can be a bit risky since some products do not achieve MFi certification, which means they won't work well with your Apple products. Do your research before using third-party products, starting with the best adapters we could find!
Our best equipment choices
The USB-C adapter to USB adapter ($ 18 at Amazon)
USB port for charging and other needs
With this USB-C to USB adapter, charging your iPhone is as easy as using the cable that came with your iPhone. I prefer this adapter to the cable because it also allows me to use other devices with my MacBook Air. Then, since the new model only has USB-C ports, a USB adapter is very useful..
Additional equipment
The USB-C to Lightning Cable ($ 19 at Apple)