Couldn't Apple also argue quality control; i.e., when they control the cable that is used they can guarantee the safety and reliability of how it interacts w their device. I have used some cheap 3rd party lightening cables and they often quit working.
they could, but 've had more than my fair share of genuine apple cables getting faulty that i don't think their cable QC is a strong point
Yes, why should Apple change its connector after using it on so many iPhone models? This is one situation where I object to the EU overreach. I wonder if there is some USB-C lobbyist acting behind the scenes because I can't fathom why the EU would want to wade in on the choice of connector.