Skip to main content

Cheaper official MFi Lightning gear on the way after Apple reduces licence fee?

The cost of Apple-endorsed Lightning cables may fall if Macotakara is correct that Apple has reduced both the cost and minimum purchase volumes for MFi licenses.

The new deal was reportedly introduced last month, and would likely take some time to filter through into retail prices.

The MFi program is a licensing arrangement dating back to 2005, when it stood for Made For iPod. It now officially stands for Made For iPhone/iPod/iPad, and allows manufacturers access to the authentication chip as well as the right to use the MFi logo and describe the cables as certified.

Apple initially started generating warning messages for some non-certified cables, and later stopped some unofficial cables working at all. Some third-party cables reportedly get around this by using cracked chips that bypass the authentication check.

As ever, you can find the best deals on both certified and non-certified cables over at 9to5Toys, including a deal for ZAGG MFi cables in various colors for just $10 with free shipping.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Ben Lovejoy Ben Lovejoy

Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!


Ben Lovejoy's favorite gear