Ken Pillonel has launched a phone case that converts the Lightning port on older iPhones to USB-C, building upon his prior USB-C iPhone mod. This new product aims to reduce planned obsolescence by allowing users to retain their older devices. Priced between $45-$55, the case supports fast charging, data transfer, and MagSafe charging. It includes features like an extra SIM card storage slot and a lanyard attachment. Pillonel acknowledges limitations in feature support due to Apple's system restrictions on Lightning adapters.
Ken Pillonel's latest project aims to fight planned obsolescence by giving people one less reason to replace their old iPhones, and builds on his viral mod from 2021 by improving support for fast charging. "This time, I'm turning that one-off DIY mod into a real product you can own," Pillonel said in the description of his latest YouTube video. "This isn't just a hack anymore; it's the biggest project I've ever done."
Features include support for MagSafe charging, data transfers to computers, CarPlay, and 9V fast charging. In Pillonel's previous 2021 USB-C hack, fast charging was only activated if the cable was facing the right way, but now fast charging is supported no matter how it's plugged in. Other features available to Lightning and USB-C may not be supported, however.
I guarantee the following: Fast charging, data transfers to computers, and CarPlay. Anything else is not officially supported and you'll need to remove the case to use it, sadly. This is because Apple has locked down the adapters for Lightning phones, so that they can earn a commission on all adapters sold.
The phone case also includes an extra SIM card storage slot that's convenient for travelling overseas, and a lanyard attachment. It's available in dark gray at launch, and Pillonel says that more color options will be available in September.
Collection
[
|
...
]