Their options were (a) abandon video out and analog audio out or (b) keep the old 30 pin, which was really showing its age or (c) adopt either MHL or Slimport, which are in a format war and have significant downsides (MHL requires external power unless the display provides it, Slimport is niche and adaptors tend to be extremely expensive). And then, in the iPhone 7, when MHL or Slimport or something else has won, change to that again, breaking everything.
Not to mention the upcoming transition to USB3, which lightning will survive but current Micro-USB will not.
Finally, micro-usb ports are pretty delicate, and a common cause of phone breakage. The lightning port is far more robust.
Not to mention the upcoming transition to USB3, which lightning will survive but current Micro-USB will not.
Finally, micro-usb ports are pretty delicate, and a common cause of phone breakage. The lightning port is far more robust.