Apple’s recent crusade against traditional connectors doesn’t appear to be changing anytime soon and the latest rumour from Macotakara suggests they’re planning to remove both the USB 3.0 ports and MagSafe ports on the upcoming MacBook Pro. If this is the case, the next-generation MacBook Pro models will only include Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity. Even though it’s possible to argue USB 3.1 Type-C’s reversible connector is more convenient, hardly any devices use it apart from a few smartphones. Clearly, the majority of USB storage devices, adapters and other neat accessories employ the USB 3.0/2.0 standard. In theory, it’s possible to use an adapter but this is a costly measure and detracts from Apple’s focus on a minimalist approach.
In addition to the removal of the 3.5mm jack from the iPhone, Apple seems obsessed with modernising the connectivity standard. Honestly, I don’t see the point and there’s nothing wrong with the 3.5mm jack or USB 3.0. Of course, USB 3.1 Type-C has benefits, but once again it’s important to realise that finding devices to support it is challenging. Consumers shouldn’t have their options restricted because Apple wants to streamline their unibody design or push relatively new protocols. I can only see this move leading to more online mockery towards Apple and criticism of their new strategy.
