In a groundbreaking move, Apple has halted the sale of iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE in 29 countries, including Northern Ireland.
This decision, made in accordance with European Union regulations, comes as part of efforts to reduce electronic waste and enforce the use of USB-C connectors in all new electronic devices by December 28, 2024.
Users attempting to purchase these models on Apple’s UK website in Northern Ireland are now greeted with a message about compliance with the “EU common charger regulations.”
The move also affects Switzerland, which aligns with several EU policies, as well as Northern Ireland, which falls under special trade agreements with the EU post-Brexit.
The iPhone SE, previously priced at $429, has now disappeared from Apple’s affordable product list. The entry-level iPhone 15, priced at $699, is now the most budget-friendly option.
Although third-party resellers on platforms like Amazon in countries like Spain and Germany still offer limited stock, these options are expected to sell out soon.
Rumors suggest that the fourth-generation iPhone SE may launch in March 2025, but its price is unlikely to match the affordability of its predecessor.
This move, driven by EU legislation, has a limited global impact, as similar regulations are not expected to take effect in other regions until older iPhone models naturally phase out.