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The engineer who modified an iPhone to sport a USB-C port has now shared the process of how the “world’s first” Apple USB-C smartphone came to be.
Back in October, robotics engineer Kenny Pi shared a short video showing off the USB-C iPhone. Through some creative engineering, Pi was able to get the device to function properly, even with the heavy modifications.
In a YouTube video published Monday, Pi detailed the entire process — from proof of concept to the actual machining of components.
The clip illustrates the fact that the modification is an intensive engineering feat and not a do-it-yourself type of project.
With that being said, Pi has released the entire initiative as an open-source project on Github. He is also auctioning off his original USB-C iPhone.
Even with the Github repository and detailed instructions, modifying an iPhone to this degree is ill-advised. According to Apple, unauthorized modifications kill the iPhone warranty. Furthermore, the modifications would most likely cause Apple to reject a repair of any sort.
It may not be long before consumers have the chance to own a USB-C iPhone, however. A proposed piece of legislation in Europe could mandate USB-C as a common port standard. If passed, the legislation would give Apple two years to release an iPhone with a USB-C port in the European Union.
