Swiss engineer Ken Pillonel has once again stunned the tech world with his latest release—a two-piece protective case named Obsolescence that brings USB-C functionality to older iPhones equipped with a Lightning port, all without needing to modify the phone itself. This innovative product allows iPhone users to seamlessly enjoy the latest USB-C convenience.
The Obsoless protective case features a custom-built circuit board and USB-C connector, allowing for 9V fast charging and data transfer without any internal modifications to your device, and it’s also compatible with Apple CarPlay. This product is suitable for 20 different iPhone models with Lightning connectors, priced between $45 and $55 (approximately HK$351 to HK$429).
Pillonel, with its extensive experience in developing USB-C cases for AirPods, has successfully overcome multiple technical challenges to ensure essential requirements like fast charging compatibility. This design features an innovative buckle mechanism composed of two parts, securely fastening to the phone through a precisely aligned connector. Inspired by pen-style clickers and belt buckles, the rotating joint and tactile buckle design make the case both sealed and easy to operate, requiring no additional tools.
In terms of technical specifications, the Obsoless protective case supports fast charging up to 9V and seamlessly integrates with MagSafe and CarPlay functionality, while also offering data transfer capabilities. The USB-C connector is cleverly built into the right side at the bottom of the case, balancing convenience of use with visual appeal.
It's worth noting that while this case supports charging, data transfer, and CarPlay, if you want to use other accessories that require power from your phone, such as wired audio devices or external storage, you'll need to remove the case and use the original Lightning port.
Supported devices include older models such as the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and the second generation iPhone SE. All of these products can currently run the latest iOS 18, with only the iPhone SE expected to be updated to iOS 26 in the near future.
