’A Lightning to USB-C Adapter’

This little object, just 3cm long (not a tiny dog!), is a ‘Lightning to USB-C’ adapter. It’s a device that allows you to use the same lead to charge a variety of different Apple devices. 
The Lightning connector was introduced in 2012 with the arrival of the iPhone 5 and, shortly after, the iPad 4. For several years, it was the standard way to both charge them and connect them to other devices, such as a laptop. However, within just a few years, it became superseded by USB-C, first with iPads and most recently with the latest iPhones.
The new connector has several advantages, notably faster transfers and the ability to connect to other devices, such as external monitors. 
Over time, developing a standard connector should also help reduce waste and the need for different cables for different devices. In the meantime, however, I have a collection of these little adapters dotted around the house instead!