Yes, the iPhone 15 series can charge certain devices through its USB-C port, making it the first iPhone line to support reverse charging via cable. While Apple hasn’t branded this as “reverse charging,” the feature allows the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max to supply power to small external accessories, such as AirPods, another iPhone, or even Apple Watch, when connected with a USB-C cable.
This article explains how reverse wired charging works on iPhone 15, what devices are compatible, what cables to use, and the limitations you should know.
🔌 What Is Reverse Charging?
Reverse charging, or power sharing, allows a smartphone to provide power to another device. On the iPhone 15, this is done via the USB-C port, not wirelessly.
This means your iPhone can act as a portable charger for small accessories—especially useful in travel, emergencies, or when you don’t have access to a power outlet.
⚠️ Note: The iPhone 15 does not support reverse wireless charging, but can reverse charge via USB-C cable.
✅ Which iPhone Models Support USB-C Reverse Charging?
Only the following models support this feature:
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
All models in the iPhone 15 lineup come equipped with a USB-C port, replacing the Lightning connector used in previous iPhones.
🔋 What Devices Can Be Charged Using iPhone 15’s USB-C Port?
Apple has not officially released a full list, but based on Apple’s support documents and user testing, the iPhone 15 can provide power to:
✅ Apple Devices:
- AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) with USB-C charging case
- AirPods 3rd Gen with USB-C
- Apple Watch (via USB-C charging puck)
- Another iPhone 15 (though very limited)
- Low-power accessories, such as the Apple Pencil (USB-C)
✅ Other Devices (depending on power draw):
- Wireless earbuds with USB-C charging cases
- Fitness bands or trackers
- Very low-power Android devices or USB accessories
⚠️ Charging large devices like iPads, MacBooks, or tablets from your iPhone is not possible due to limited power output.
🔄 How to Use Reverse Charging on iPhone 15
You can charge another device directly by following these steps:
Step 1: Use a USB-C to USB-C cable
Use a MFi-certified or Apple-approved USB-C cable for reliable connection.
Step 2: Connect your iPhone 15 to the accessory
- Plug one end of the cable into your iPhone 15’s USB-C port.
- Plug the other end into the device you want to charge (e.g., AirPods or Apple Watch).
Step 3: Charging begins automatically
- The connected device should start charging instantly.
- You may see a charging animation or indicator light, depending on the accessory.
✅ No settings or special apps are needed—this feature is plug-and-play.
⚡ How Much Power Can iPhone 15 Output?
Apple hasn’t published exact output specs, but real-world tests suggest the iPhone 15 can provide up to 4.5 watts (5V/0.9A) of output—sufficient for:
- AirPods (fully charges in about 1–2 hours)
- Apple Watch (slower than wall charger, but functional)
- Sharing small amounts of power to another iPhone (minimal)
🔋 While you can charge another iPhone this way, it’s inefficient and not ideal for full charging.
🔒 Limitations of Reverse Charging on iPhone 15
While helpful in specific scenarios, this feature has some constraints:
| Limitation | Details |
| ⚠️ Low power output | Enough for accessories, not for iPads or large batteries |
| ❌ Not supported on older iPhones | Only iPhone 15 series have USB-C reverse charging |
| ⚡ Slower charging speeds | Charges more slowly than wall adapters or power banks |
| 🛑 No wireless reverse charging | Cannot wirelessly charge AirPods or Apple Watch |
| 🔋 Battery drain | Drains your iPhone’s battery faster—use wisely in emergencies |
🧳 When Is USB-C Reverse Charging Useful?
Here are a few real-world examples where reverse charging with iPhone 15 makes sense:
- Top up your AirPods during a long flight
- Charge your Apple Watch while camping or away from an outlet
- Help a friend power up their iPhone 15 briefly
- Use your iPhone 15 as a power source for a USB-C Apple Pencil or accessory
🔋 Tips for Best Results
- Use short, high-quality USB-C cables to reduce power loss.
- Don’t use your iPhone heavily while reverse charging—it may overheat or slow the charge.
- Turn on Low Power Mode to conserve your iPhone’s battery during reverse charging.
- Only use reverse charging for small, quick top-ups, not full charging cycles.
✅ Summary: iPhone 15 Supports Wired Reverse Charging
The iPhone 15 series is the first iPhone generation to support wired reverse charging via its USB-C port. This allows users to charge AirPods, Apple Watch, and other low-power accessories using their iPhone as the power source.
While not designed to replace a dedicated power bank, this feature is a valuable tool in travel, emergencies, or on-the-go situations.
Quick Recap:
| Feature | Available on iPhone 15? |
| USB-C reverse charging (wired) | ✅ Yes |
| Wireless reverse charging | ❌ No |
| Charge AirPods/Apple Watch | ✅ Yes |
| Charge other phones | ⚠️ Yes, but limited |
| Charge iPads or laptops | ❌ Not supported |
Meta Description:
Can the iPhone 15 charge other devices? Yes—with USB-C reverse charging, you can power AirPods, Apple Watch, and accessories directly from your iPhone. Learn how it works and what to expect.
