Charger will only charge for a few seconds before needing replugging

Question

I use a clone charger wire for the iPhone. It looks very similar to an OEM version but is slightly different.

When I first started using it, upon closer inspection, I noticed that the metal connection end was a bit angled (when viewed sideways). I applied pressure to make the metal bit stick straight out.

First of all, I feel kinda stupid since it worked fine even though it was bent.

Now the thing only charges my phone for a few seconds before:

1. iPhone says this accesory may not be supported
2. iPhone acts as if I just pulled the charger from the port and stops charging

All while it's still plugged in and supposed to be charging.

What is wrong with the cable?

Edit: I accidentally dropped my iPhone while plugged in. The metal bit just bent like 30 degrees. I carefully bent it back into place.

Answer 1

More than likely, you broke the lightning connector solder joints on its PCB

When you dropped your iPhone and bent your connector, you weakened the solder joints (yellow box). When you bent it back, it probably broke the joint enough where it makes a very poor connection to no connection at all.

It's time for a new cable.