FIELD GUIDESource-led reference
Port & Cable

P017 / Mobile / Connector

Lightning connector

Apple’s Lightning connector uses an exposed contact-tab form, unlike the hollow USB-C plug.

Also called Apple Lightning Lightning cable

Identify the connector and accessory purpose separately.

Look for

Inspect a disconnected, undamaged connector. Apple’s authenticity guidance applies to accessory identification; this original drawing is not an authenticity test.

Claim inspection dates: 2026-10-01, 2026-10-13, 2026-10-22 · Independent review pending

Lightning connector: three-quarter view. Computer-generated illustration, not a photograph.

Three-quarter view Computer-generated illustration with prior AI visual review. Not a photograph, measurement or compatibility check. Independent technical and rights review pending.

Lightning connector: mating face. Computer-generated illustration, not a photograph.

Mating face Computer-generated illustration with prior AI visual review. Not a photograph, measurement or compatibility check. Independent technical and rights review pending.

Lightning connector: fitted in place. Computer-generated illustration, not a photograph.

Fitted in place Computer-generated illustration with prior AI visual review. Not a photograph, measurement or compatibility check. Independent technical and rights review pending.

Lightning connector: original recognition drawing, not to scale.

Recognition drawing Original schematic, not to scale. Drawing review pending.

Image inspection / P017

See the view. Check its scope.

1 registered view for this reference. Different part examples are not automatically mates; all remain not to scale and independently unapproved.

Lightning. Cable plug / visible contact face. Exposed contact tab; eight near-face marks. Qualitative source study, not an exact mating drawing or pinout. (private workspace)

P017 / Source-observed physical study

Lightning

Apple Support 111103 / illustrated cable example

Cable plug / visible contact face · Cable plug / cable end

Not to scale. Technical and rights review pending.

Inspect view & provenance (private workspace)

The useful distinction

Recognize it. Then verify it.

Apple’s Lightning connector uses an exposed contact-tab form, unlike the hollow USB-C plug. [C017A]

Apple’s adapter guidance distinguishes HDMI-equipped Digital AV adapters from VGA adapters: the VGA adapter does not carry audio. [C017B]

Apple notes that an app may not support its display adapter and that protected movies, shows or certain streaming apps require an HDCP-compatible connection. [C017C]

Apple lists the boot of its Lightning-to-USB reference cable as 7.7 mm wide and 12 mm long. These are boot dimensions, not mating-tab dimensions. [C017D]

Apple describes a smooth one-piece Lightning end with rounded, smooth contacts and a gray/metallic faceplate insert in its Apple-branded examples. [C017E]

Apple describes manufacturing-location writing and a 12-digit serial on its Lightning-to-USB cable near the USB end; these cable clues are not a unique connector-part marking. [C017F]

Source-scoped identification facts

Each value retains its exact example, role and measurement axis. Facts from different parts must not be combined into an invented component.

Documented examples; not a mating drawing or compatibility approval
Dimensions / axis7.7 mm Apple cable boot width (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products); 12 mm Apple cable boot length (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products
Connector roleLightning cable-end connector (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products
ManufacturerApple (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products
SeriesApple-branded Lightning-to-USB cable reference (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products
Recorded markingsSource-listed manufacturer/location writing and12-digit serial nearUSBend;not an observed unique part marking (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products
View conventionApple-labelled exterior/contact-tab views of Lightning cable end; boot body distinguished from protruding tab (Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products)S947Current primary-source scoped values; named examples remain separate and unknowns are not inferred from illustrations. Named series/reference only, not every family part. Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products

Not recorded: Nominal contacts, Positions / cavity span, Populated contacts, Contact rows, Contact pitch, Contact gender / arrangement, Mounting, Coupling / latch, Keying / polarization, Shell / form, Exact part / implementation. Unknown fields stay unknown; illustrations supply no measurements or pin assignments.

Report a correction to these facts →

Bounded facts, visible unknowns

Specifications and limits

Lightning connector facts and limitations
RecognitionExposed contact tab [C017A]
Accessory compatibilityExact product and device required [C017A]
Source-scoped recognitionThe study shows one visible face of Apple’s illustrated Lightning cable example. For a display connection, check the correct adapter, its audio path, the app and any content-protection requirement. [C017A] [C017B] [C017C]
Mechanical dimensionsNo independently reviewed mechanical drawing in this release; do not use this page for fabrication.
Engineering pinoutSource-checked engineering profile available; independent review pending. Open engineering profile →
Verified device listNot included. Check exact device and accessory documentation.
A boundary, not an omission to guess around.

This record is an identification starting point. It does not provide measured mating tolerances, a wiring pinout, electrical approval, or a list of verified device models. Use the original device and accessory documentation to resolve the remaining requirements.

Before you connect

What to check

  1. Check the exact device’s connector requirement.
  2. Read whether the accessory supports the needed data or other function.
  3. Do not rely on visual similarity as proof of certification or electrical safety.
Trace a supported connection class →

V146 — An exposed tab, then a separate display path.

The study shows one visible face of Apple’s illustrated Lightning cable example. For a display connection, check the correct adapter, its audio path, the app and any content-protection requirement.

Your next step

Move from the form to the requirement.

Read the engineering reference Source-scoped details, orientation and explicit unknowns.Work through a connection Choose your task before deciding on a cable.Explore this evidence trail Inspect the claims and their dependencies. (private workspace)

The source trail

Evidence for this page

AI-assisted inspection is not independent engineering review. Source scope and access limitations are disclosed below. Procedural checklists are editorial requirements, not hardware measurements.

Back to first citation ↑
C017ASource checked · pending review

Apple’s Lightning connector uses an exposed contact-tab form, unlike the hollow USB-C plug.

Apple · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning accessories ↗

Locator: Lightning connector identification
Access: public page. No Apple product photography or artwork is reproduced; no boot measurement treated as a mating dimension.

S017: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: Consumer identification / documented standard or product class only. Next review due 2026-12-30.

Back to first citation ↑
C017BSource checked · pending review

Apple’s adapter guidance distinguishes HDMI-equipped Digital AV adapters from VGA adapters: the VGA adapter does not carry audio.

Apple · Apple Digital AV and VGA adapter troubleshooting ↗

Locator: Published 28 October 2024. Sections on matching the device connector, missing audio, incompatible apps and HDCP. Rechecked 13 October 2026.
Access: public page. Not a hardware inspection, certification, pinout, dimensional mating check or blanket product-compatibility statement.

S610: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: V146: Apple’s described device-to-display adapter path. Not a claim that every app or third-party HDMI adapter provides audio.. Next review due 2027-01-11.

Back to first citation ↑
C017CSource checked · pending review

Apple notes that an app may not support its display adapter and that protected movies, shows or certain streaming apps require an HDCP-compatible connection.

Apple · Apple Digital AV and VGA adapter troubleshooting ↗

Locator: Published 28 October 2024. Sections on matching the device connector, missing audio, incompatible apps and HDCP. Rechecked 13 October 2026.
Access: public page. Not a hardware inspection, certification, pinout, dimensional mating check or blanket product-compatibility statement.

S610: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: V146: Matching the Lightning connector is only one requirement. This does not establish support for a named app, device or display.. Next review due 2027-01-11.

Back to first citation ↑
C017DSource checked · pending review

Apple lists the boot of its Lightning-to-USB reference cable as 7.7 mm wide and 12 mm long. These are boot dimensions, not mating-tab dimensions.

Apple · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories ↗

Locator: Compare packaging/writing; Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB cable, Lightning connector end: contact finish, consistent7.7mmx12mm boot,faceplate. Three linked Apple images downloaded and viewed.
Access: public page. Boot width/length are not mating-tab dimensions or universal Lightning geometry. Appearance/MFi badge/cable writing is not authentication, exact model identification or an inspected physical specimen. No contact count, pitch or assignment inferred from the photograph.

S947: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products. Next review due 2027-01-20.

Back to first citation ↑
C017ESource checked · pending review

Apple describes a smooth one-piece Lightning end with rounded, smooth contacts and a gray/metallic faceplate insert in its Apple-branded examples.

Apple · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories ↗

Locator: Compare packaging/writing; Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB cable, Lightning connector end: contact finish, consistent7.7mmx12mm boot,faceplate. Three linked Apple images downloaded and viewed.
Access: public page. Boot width/length are not mating-tab dimensions or universal Lightning geometry. Appearance/MFi badge/cable writing is not authentication, exact model identification or an inspected physical specimen. No contact count, pitch or assignment inferred from the photograph.

S947: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products;source appearance clues only,not authentication or measured specimen evidence.. Next review due 2027-01-20.

Back to first citation ↑
C017FSource checked · pending review

Apple describes manufacturing-location writing and a 12-digit serial on its Lightning-to-USB cable near the USB end; these cable clues are not a unique connector-part marking.

Apple · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories ↗

Locator: Compare packaging/writing; Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB cable, Lightning connector end: contact finish, consistent7.7mmx12mm boot,faceplate. Three linked Apple images downloaded and viewed.
Access: public page. Boot width/length are not mating-tab dimensions or universal Lightning geometry. Appearance/MFi badge/cable writing is not authentication, exact model identification or an inspected physical specimen. No contact count, pitch or assignment inferred from the photograph.

S947: full source recordInspect review dependencies → (private workspace)

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products;not a generic MFi guarantee or authentication test.. Next review due 2027-01-20.

Suggest a correction to this field note →

Put this field note to work.

Add to discovery trayRecord an unsaved candidate (private workspace)

Candidate selection does not confirm the identity or capabilities of your physical item.

DISPLAY RECOGNITION / FORM → PATH → INPUT

Match the form. Follow the signal.

Compare source-scoped studies, distinguish the component role and work through the remaining display requirements.

Open the display recognition reference →

Evidence behind this page

Scope first. Source second. Approval separate.

3 linked sources · 6 scoped claims · 0 sources with inspection/access flags.

Page scope: consumer_pilot

Assessment 2026-10-22 · earliest scheduled source review 2026-12-30. This is a recorded-date assessment, not a live source check. Page-level independent review is not established by this panel.

Inspect 3 source scopes, access limits and dates

S017 · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning accessories

Apple · Manufacturer / product-owner domain · inspected 2026-10-01 · due 2026-12-30

Within inspection window

Scoped support: Exposed contact-tab identification and accessory authenticity caution.

Not established / limitations: No Apple product photography or artwork is reproduced; no boot measurement treated as a mating dimension.

Locator: Lightning connector identification

S610 · Apple Digital AV and VGA adapter troubleshooting

Apple · Manufacturer / product-owner domain · inspected 2026-10-13 · due 2027-01-11

Within inspection window

Scoped support: Apple adapter troubleshooting for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. Audio, app and content-protection limitations; no universal third-party adapter or device-model approval.

Not established / limitations: Not a hardware inspection, certification, pinout, dimensional mating check or blanket product-compatibility statement.

Locator: Published 28 October 2024. Sections on matching the device connector, missing audio, incompatible apps and HDCP. Rechecked 13 October 2026.

S947 · Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories

Apple · Manufacturer / product-owner domain · inspected 2026-10-22 · due 2027-01-20

Within inspection window

Scoped support: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable boot and appearance only; source-listed cable text clues.

Not established / limitations: Boot width/length are not mating-tab dimensions or universal Lightning geometry. Appearance/MFi badge/cable writing is not authentication, exact model identification or an inspected physical specimen. No contact count, pitch or assignment inferred from the photograph.

Locator: Compare packaging/writing; Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB cable, Lightning connector end: contact finish, consistent7.7mmx12mm boot,faceplate. Three linked Apple images downloaded and viewed.

Trace 6 claims to their source records

C017A · P017

Apple’s Lightning connector uses an exposed contact-tab form, unlike the hollow USB-C plug.

Claim scope: Consumer identification / documented standard or product class only

Source links: S017 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

C017B · P017

Apple’s adapter guidance distinguishes HDMI-equipped Digital AV adapters from VGA adapters: the VGA adapter does not carry audio.

Claim scope: V146: Apple’s described device-to-display adapter path. Not a claim that every app or third-party HDMI adapter provides audio.

Source links: S610 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

C017C · P017

Apple notes that an app may not support its display adapter and that protected movies, shows or certain streaming apps require an HDCP-compatible connection.

Claim scope: V146: Matching the Lightning connector is only one requirement. This does not establish support for a named app, device or display.

Source links: S610 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

C017D · P017

Apple lists the boot of its Lightning-to-USB reference cable as 7.7 mm wide and 12 mm long. These are boot dimensions, not mating-tab dimensions.

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products

Source links: S947 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

C017E · P017

Apple describes a smooth one-piece Lightning end with rounded, smooth contacts and a gray/metallic faceplate insert in its Apple-branded examples.

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products;source appearance clues only,not authentication or measured specimen evidence.

Source links: S947 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

C017F · P017

Apple describes manufacturing-location writing and a 12-digit serial on its Lightning-to-USB cable near the USB end; these cable clues are not a unique connector-part marking.

Claim scope: Apple-branded Lightning-to-USB reference cable in Apple111103;not all Lightning products;not a generic MFi guarantee or authentication test.

Source links: S947 · Evidence trail → (private workspace)

Prepare this page for review → (private workspace)Read the evidence method →

Recorded evidence only. An inspection date, publisher label, source link or generated packet is not independent technical review, hardware testing, fabrication approval or a compatibility verdict.