It had been talked about for a long time, even if there were only proposals. However, it is now official. Representatives of the Council of the European Union and European Parliament they decided today that from autumn 2024 USB-C will become a common charging port for all mobile phones, tablets, cameras and other devices in the region. A historic decision, this, given that Apple will also have to adapt to this standard. But let's see the news in detail.
The European Parliament has decided: single charger with USB-C for all devices sold in Europe. All this, starting in 2024
The law is part of a wider EU effort to make products sold in the European area more ecological. In addition to this, the project is to reduce electronic waste and make life easier for consumers. Under the new regulations, consumers they will no longer need a new charger and a new cable every time they buy a new device. They will be able to use a charger for all their small and medium-sized portable electronic devices.
Smartphones, tablets, e-readers, headsets, digital cameras, VR headsets, portable consoles and speakers charged via wired cable must be equipped with a USB-C port, regardless of manufacturer. So yes, Apple will also have to adapt and put USB-C on iPhones in place of the much-loved Thunderbolt. Laptops will also need to be adjusted to the requirements within 40 months of entry into force. In essence, the mandatory nature of this new legislation will be starting from 2024. For the other devices, the time required for adaptation is 24 months.
And for those concerned about the charging speed? No problem - charging speeds (power, more than speed, to be precise) are consistent even across devices that support fast charging, allowing users to charge their devices at the same speed using any compatible charger.
One gripe, however, will be that of the information for users. According to the European Union, consumers will receive clear information on charging characteristics of new devices, thus facilitating the compatibility check of existing chargers. Buyers will be able to choose whether to purchase new electronic equipment with or without charger.
This will lead to greater reuse of chargers (with USB-C) and help consumers to save up to 250 million euros per year on unnecessary purchases of chargers. It is estimated that recycled and unused magazines amount to approx 11.000 tons of electronic waste per year.
