Edit to add disclaimer: Re-reading the parent and GP, I'm likely misreading the disconnect to mean Lightning -> USB-A cables on iPhones with MacBooks having only USB-C ports. I think they likely meant the lack of 3.5mm plug on the iPhone while still having the plug on the MacBook. I'm leaving the comment as the former is still an interesting question, even if it's not the one originally intended.

Here are the alternatives that I see:

a. Don't switch to USB-C.

This isn't realistic. The change was going to happen sometime, to USB-C or some other improvement. USB-C is a better port, if only that it's smaller and are reversible.

b. Include both USB-A and USB-C ports with the new MacBooks.

I think a lot of people would like to see this. Drawbacks for Apple is that USB-A is larger (impacting design considerations), and removing USB-A entirely puts more pressure on manufacturers to support USB-C.

c. Start shipping the iPhone with both USB-A and USB-C cables prior to the MacBook announcement.

This isn't consistent with Apple's typical secrecy. It's also arguably wasteful.

d. Ship the iPhone with Lightning->USB C cables prior to announcing the new MacBooks.

iPhones wouldn't be able to connect to existing machines without an adapter. Also telegraphs the upcoming change prior to the announcement.

e. After announcing MacBooks with USB-C connectors, provide USB-C connectors for free, or some kind of exchange/buyback program.

While I'm sure this would be popular, it's not very typical of the industry as a whole, not just Apple.

Am I missing any options? Given these, I think the disconnect is inevitable. And given the machines people currently have, I don't think Apple will immediately switch to shipping Lightning->USB-C with iPhones (and iPads). I expect that transition will happen sometime over the next year.

It does seem weird that they are shipping iPhones with USB-B cables which can't even plug into their flagship Mac line.

I wonder when the first iPhone will ship with a USB-C connector. Next year? Never?