How to Charge AirPods or an iPhone Using Your iPhone’s USB-C Port
Need to charge your AirPods, Apple Watch, or even another iPhone but don’t have your usual charging gear? If you own a newer iPhone with a USB-C port—such as the iPhone 15 or later—you’re in luck. Apple’s shift to USB-C brings more than just universal compatibility; it introduces a handy feature that allows your iPhone to act as a power source. This means you can charge smaller Apple devices or even share power between iPhones. Whether you're traveling light or caught without a power outlet, this guide explains how to charge AirPods with your iPhone, as well as other compatible devices, using just a USB-C cable.
Charging AirPods With Your iPhone’s USB-C Port
Using your iPhone to charge AirPods is simple and effective—especially during those moments when you’re without a charger. With USB-C-equipped models like the iPhone 15 or iPad Pro, you can connect your AirPods case directly using a USB-C to USB-C cable. Once connected, your iPhone will instantly begin transferring power to the AirPods case. It’s a small but incredibly useful feature for those who rely on AirPods for calls, music, or workouts and don’t want them dying mid-use.
The best part is that the charging begins automatically without any app or toggle needed. The iPhone intelligently detects the connected device and delivers just enough power to top it off. While it won’t fully recharge your AirPods multiple times over, it provides enough of a boost to get through a flight, a commute, or a meeting. Keep in mind, however, that your iPhone’s battery will deplete faster, so use this option strategically when conserving battery is a priority.
Share Power Between iPhones Using USB-C
Got a friend whose iPhone is running on fumes? With iPhone 15 or newer, you can share battery power by simply plugging one device into the other using a USB-C to USB-C cable. The two iPhones will automatically determine which device has more battery, then initiate power transfer to the one that needs it most. No extra hardware, no third-party apps—just native power sharing thanks to USB-C and intelligent system-level controls.
This feature is especially useful when one device has just enough battery to spare and another is on the brink of shutting down. The charging process doesn’t require manual settings—it all happens automatically, making it one of the most seamless peer-to-peer features Apple has added. It’s also important to note that only iPhones running iOS 17 or later and equipped with USB-C ports support this functionality. If either device uses Lightning, power sharing won’t work.
Can You Charge iPhone With Android Devices via USB-C?
Interestingly, you can use a USB-C Android device to charge your iPhone, but it depends on the Android phone's USB Power Delivery (USB PD) compatibility. If the Android phone supports USB PD, plugging it into your iPhone 15 or later will initiate a power transfer from the Android device to your iPhone. This cross-platform charging works in a pinch, especially when you're around friends who use Android but you're low on power.
However, this method isn’t foolproof. Without USB PD, Android-to-iPhone charging may not initiate at all—or worse, your iPhone may end up charging the Android device instead. There’s no guarantee unless the Android phone explicitly supports USB PD. That said, many newer Android phones from brands like Google Pixel, Samsung, and OnePlus are equipped with this feature. Always check the tech specs or test it in a controlled setting before relying on it as a dependable power source for emergencies.
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