Under the new regulations, manufacturers must equip electronic devices, including mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, keyboards and more, with USB-C charging ports.
"Starting today, all new devices sold in the EU must have a USB Type-C charging port," the European Parliament shared on social network X. According to the EU, this change will help reduce costs and the amount of electronic waste.
The EU hopes that the regulation will simplify the use of electronic devices for consumers, while also significantly reducing the number of chargers that are thrown away. This will allow buyers to choose to buy new devices without a new charger, helping to reduce the mountain of waste from old chargers.
The regulation was passed in 2022 after a tense negotiation with Apple, the US tech giant. Manufacturers were given until December 28, 2023 to comply. Laptops, in particular, will have an additional extension until early 2026.
Although most devices now use USB-C, Apple was strongly opposed to the rule, saying it “stifles innovation.” However, Apple began selling devices with the new charging port last September.
Previously, European consumer electronics manufacturers agreed to use a common charging standard through a voluntary agreement with the European Commission. However, Apple retained its proprietary Lightning port, while other manufacturers also maintained their own chargers, leading to consumer confusion with a variety of different chargers.
The USB-C port not only supports fast charging at up to 100 watts, but also allows for data transfer at 40 gigabits per second and connection to external displays.
The European Commission estimates that the regulation will save consumers at least €200 million a year and reduce the amount of e-waste generated in the EU by more than 1,000 tonnes per year. On social network X, the European Commission asserted: "It's time to use a common charger. This will bring better charging technology, reduce e-waste and eliminate the hassle of finding the charger you need."
