EU lawmakers pass single charger law for all mobile devices!

The EU parliament just passed a new law requiring USB-C to be the single charger standard for all new smartphones, tablets, and cameras.

File photo: iPhone 13 Pro

Will it push Apple to drop its lightning port on its iPhones for the USB-C?

There were 602 lawmakers who voted in favor while 13 were against the new bill imposing a single type charger for all smartphones. Starting in late 2024, all phones, tablets, and cameras launched will have to be USB-C compatible. 

However, old chargers will not be outlawed hence customers can continue to use older models.

Laptop makers will also have to adopt the new measure by early 2026. Reportedly, The deal also covers e-readers, earbuds, and other technologies, meaning it may also affect Samsung, Huawei, and other device makers.

This move is likely to have the biggest impact on Apple and its products such as iPhones and iPads. As a consequence, it will force the Cupertino giant to change its charging port to the more common USB-C format.

To recall, Apple claimed that changing to USB Type C will stifle innovation. However, the EU rejected this justification and stressed that the bill does allow for continued development.

EU lawmakers said the single charger rule will simplify the life of Europeans, reduce electronic waste and lessen costs for consumers. Maltese MEP Alex Agius Saliba, the European Parliament's point man on the issue, stated:

Today is a great day for consumers, a great day for our environment. After more than a decade; the single charger for multiple electronic devices will finally become a reality for Europe and hopefully, we can also inspire the rest of the world.

Allegedly, makers of electronic consumer items in Europe consented to a single charging norm from dozens on the market a decade ago under a voluntary agreement with the European Commission.

There are speculations that Apple might do away with charging ports for cables entirely in future models since it also got wireless charging. On the other hand, the wireless charging option might not be feasible since it offers lower power and data transfer speeds than USB-C.

One of the sources said that the Cupertino giant declined to comment regarding the new measure.

Source: TechXplore, The Guardian