EU universal charger rules come into force
The EU's new regulations mandating a common charger for smartphones, tablets, and cameras took effect on Saturday, with the aim of reducing costs and waste. Manufacturers are now required to equip devices sold within the 27-nation bloc with a USB-C port, the European Union's designated standard for charging electronic devices.
"Starting today, all new mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, keyboards, and many other electronics sold in the EU must feature a USB Type-C charging port," the EU Parliament announced on social media platform X.
The EU argues that this single charger rule will simplify life for consumers and lower expenses. By enabling customers to buy a new device without needing a new charger, it also aims to decrease the surplus of obsolete chargers.
The law, initially approved in 2022 after negotiations with US tech giant Apple, allowed manufacturers until December 28 of this year to comply. Laptop manufacturers will have additional time, with compliance required by early 2026.
While most devices already utilize USB-C cables, Apple was initially resistant to the change. The company stated in 2021 that such regulations "stifle innovation," but by September of last year, it began shipping phones with the new port.
A decade ago, European electronic manufacturers had reached a voluntary agreement with the European Commission to adopt a single charging standard, but Apple, the leading smartphone seller, did not comply and continued using its Lightning ports. Other manufacturers maintained their alternative cables, resulting in a confusing array of options for consumers.
USB-C ports offer charging capabilities up to 100 Watts, data transfer speeds of up to 40 gigabits per second, and can connect to external displays. When the law was approved, the commission estimated it would save consumers at least 200 million euros ($208 million) annually and reduce over a thousand tonnes of electronic waste in the EU each year.
"It's time for THE charger," the European Commission tweeted on Saturday, highlighting benefits such as improved charging technology, reduced electronic waste, and less hassle in finding the necessary chargers.
