14 gadgets we wish would be unveiled at CES

Historically, Apple hasn't been overly concerned about compatibility with non-Apple products, but this Lightning thing is a little bonkers.

When it dropped the 30-pin connector, Apple had an opportunity to go the micro-USB route -- the connector that is used on literally every other phone on the market (seriously, even "dumb" phones use micro-USB). Instead, Apple went with a "Lightning" connector, whose primary advantage seems to be that it can be plugged in frontwards or backwards.

The other advantage (for Apple) is that Lightning contains an authentication chip rigorously protected by Apple and doled out only to high-volume and favored accessory makers. That means third-party iPhone accessories, adapters and chargers tend to be pricy.

Apple products are expensive enough. Would it be possible, Apple, to go with a universal standard for something as basic as a connector so we don't have to pay an arm and a leg for accessories? -DG

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