WSJ Tech News Briefing · Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Cheap USB-C chargers and cables are causing an increase in broken iPhones, according to WSJ's Natalie Kaufman. The lack of proper safeguards and voltage regulation in inexpensive chargers can damage a device's motherboard and touchscreen functionality.
“When Apple switched its ports from lightning to USB-C, it kind of opened up the floodgates for people to buy these cheap dup chargers.”
“So their motherboards are just shot. The touchscreen function isn't working. And she says that has a lot to do with charging damage.”
“So a USB-C cord should be certified by the Universal Serial Bus Implementers Forum. That's where USB comes from.”