EU will get standard mobile chargers in two years
The European Union will force all makers of laptops, mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices to have standard USB Type-C chargers. Especially Apple has argued against the proposal as the company prefers its own type of chargers but the company is reported to have started testing the new EU standard on its devices.
By autumn 2024, USB Type-C will become the common charging port for all mobile phones, tablets and cameras in the EU following an agreement between the European Parliament and the Council. Improved information about wireless chargers will also be mandatory.
The provisional agreement on the amended Radio Equipment Directive establishes a single charging solution for certain electronic devices. This law is a part of a broader EU effort to make products in the EU more sustainable, to reduce electronic waste, and make consumers’ lives easier, the Parliament said in a statement.
“Under the new rules, consumers will no longer need a different charging device and cable every time they purchase a new device, and can use one single charger for all of their small and medium-sized portable electronic devices. Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, earbuds, digital cameras, headphones and headsets, handheld videogame consoles and portable speakers that are rechargeable via a wired cable will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C port, regardless of their manufacturer. Laptops will also have to be adapted to the requirements by 40 months after the entry into force.”
CHARGING SPEED
The charging speed is also harmonised for devices that support fast charging, allowing users to charge their devices at the same speed with any compatible charger.
The agreement means that consumers must be provided with clear information on the charging characteristics of new devices, making it easier for them to see whether their existing chargers are compatible. Buyers will also be able to choose whether they want to purchase new electronic equipment with or without a charging device.
@These new obligations will lead to more re-use of chargers and will help consumers save up to 250 million euro a year on unnecessary charger purchases. Disposed of and unused chargers are estimated to represent about 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually”, the statement says.
WIRELESS CHARGERS
“Today we have made the common charger a reality in Europe! European consumers were frustrated long with multiple chargers piling up with every new device. Now they will be able to use a single charger for all their portable electronics”, says the Parliament’s rapporteur Alex Agius Saliba.
“We are proud that laptops, e-readers, earbuds, keyboards, computer mice, and portable navigation devices are also included in addition to smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones and headsets, handheld videogame consoles and portable speakers. We have also added provisions on wireless charging being the next evolution in the charging technology and improved information and labelling for consumers.”
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