It is almost certain that this year Apple will release an iPhone with a USB-C port, in compliance with EU rules. This may have some limitations, which is not intended. Thus, even before the iPhone was launched with a USB-C port, Apple was already having problems with the European Union.

Although it is only on December 28, 2024 that Apple should already enter the EU standard for charging ports.  This means that you have to change the iPhone to use the USB-C port and thus change its entire structure and the cables it provides.
A rumor from the beginning of the year assumed that priority would be given to equipment with the “Made for iPhone” certification, which is contrary to the new EU standards.  The rest will have limits on download speed and data transfer.
In response to these rumors, it appears that the European Union has really hit back.  European Commissioner Thierry Breton has reportedly sent a letter to Apple, warning that the practice of limiting the functionality of USB-C cables will not be allowed.  This may jeopardize the sale of iPhone in the European Union where applicable.

This information was provided by the German newspaper Die Zeit, having a reliable entity as a source.  The German news agency DPA got the message, and the report says the EU also warned Apple during a meeting in mid-March.
While that may be reality, Apple has time on its side, with 2024 winding down. You can put that check on the USB-C port on iPhone 15 models later this year.  iPhone 16 is scheduled to be launched in September 2024, so these devices will be on the market before this law takes effect.
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The information that was revealed also brought an important truth.  The European Union intends to publish a guide to ensure a "uniform interpretation" of legislation by the third quarter of this year.  Of course, this idea is just a rumor and has never been confirmed by Apple.  However, it is possible that this is in your plans, even with the iPad not having this item in its USB-C port.