they have the right to use their own plug if they wish
The reason the regulation was introduced in the first place was proprietary connectors and overpriced chargers for them. There actually was a demand for it.
super cheap android models should be able to use old micro USB if they want
Until this reaches legislation in the EU countries, micro USB will likely be as outdated as a 25 pin parallel port
If someone is dumb enough to buy an overpriced Apple phone, then complain about their over priced chargers, then that is their fault for buying garbage. But I can buy a micro USB charger from a gas station for $2.99 and a crappy lightning charger for $7.99. Both of those are not horrible prices for a charger.
And you have a really good chance of blowing up your phone. On top of it all, Apple puts chips in their cables to keep "just anyone" from making charging cables. Forcing everyone to go with the same type of connector will force Apple to consider the value of continuing this practice since you'll a very limited way of knowing if the cable you're holding or buying will work in an iPhone or not. This will cause people to re-evaluate whether or not they want and iPhone.
Besides, it's not like Apple has much of a choice if they want to keep selling there. Honestly, I think they'll come out with a converter and then tell the EU that they're being silly and that they should allow the converter to count.
That is fucking dumb. I am not a fan of Apple, but they have the right to use their own plug if they wish, and super cheap android models should be able to use old micro USB if they want to cut as many corners as possible to save money.
This just dumb.