
It ensures that third-party accessories are safe to use. With time, this program now applies to the Lightning cable and other accessories sold by Apple. While Apple's actions may be controlling, take a look at the situation with "noncompliant" USB-C cables to understand how useful the MFi program is. MFi stands for Made For iPhone/iPad/iPod and was first introduced in 2005 as Made For iPod, which certified accessories for its 30-pin dock connector. All we know right now is that MFi-Certification is a sign of quality. It's possible that MFi will phase out as USB-C becomes more ubiquitous, or the program may transition its focus to wireless and peripheral iPhone and iPad accessories. This may not mean much on its own, but USB-C is becoming the go-to for wired headphones and an alternative to HDMI (along with other wired accessories). Additionally, Apple's website makes no mention of certified or licensed USB-C cables. Well, as of right now, there are no MFi-Certified USB cables (aside from USB-C to Lightning cables). There's also a good chance that the next iPhone will have a USB-C port. What Happens to MFi When Apple Switches to USB-C?Īs you may know, Apple's new line of iPads and MacBooks have USB-C ports instead of Lightning ports.


Each Lightning connector on an MFI-certified cable or other device has a tiny authentication chip, so your device knows it's an MFi-certified accessory. In the end, people get reliable products, manufacturers get to wave around MFi licenses, and Apple gets some extra cash.
#Apple lightning cable manufacturer Bluetooth
Manufacturers run their iPad and iPhone accessories (Lightning cables, gamepads, Bluetooth controllers, and so on) through compliance and safety tests, pay Apple some royalties, and gain a "Made for iPhone" badge on their product packaging. The MFi certification process is virtually the same today. Manufacturers also had to pay royalties to Apple, in case you're wondering. These tests checked for safety (overheating), durability, accessory compatibility, and headphone jack controls.

To gain MFi certification and advertise products for the iPod, manufacturers had to run products through Apple compliance tests. Remember, there was a time when everything from alarm clocks to cars had built-in, 30-pin connectors. MFi (Made for iPod) certification began way back in 2005 as a way to ensure that iPods (with their bulky, 30-pin connectors) would work with all accessories and chargers. Why? Well, because they aren't MFi-Certified, of course! Whatever the reason, you shouldn't buy ultra-cheap uncertified cables and accessories for your Apple devices because, in the end, they might cost you more than the overpriced alternatives.
#Apple lightning cable manufacturer mac
Sure, many iPhone, iPad, and Mac accessories are pricey.
