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The EU has come to an agreement that the USB Type-C port will become the common charging port for all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras in the EU by autumn 2024.
This law establishes a single charging solution for all electronic handheld devices and is part of a broader effort to “make products in the EU more sustainable, reduce electronic waste, and make consumers’ lives easier”, according to the European Parliament website.
With this new rule in place, consumers will no longer need to purchase a different charging device and cable every time they change their device.
The implementation of a universal charging port will lead to more re-use of old chargers and will have consumers save money in the long run on unnecessary charger purchases since disposed and unused charges are estimated to represent about 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually.
As most Android phones have been making the gradual switch to USB-C charging ports, Apple will likely bear brunt of the impact of this new legislation, as their newest iPhones still sport the signature Lightning charger ports.
Back in 2020, Apple stopped providing chargers and headphones with new iPhone purchases, similarly citing environmental goals and reducing carbon footprint as justifications for the change. Since then, many other smartphone manufacturers have followed suit, to much controversy amongst consumers. A universal USB-C port would further justify the non-inclusion of charges with new device purchases.
Since the announcement of the legislation two days ago, public opinion has been generally positive, since it stops tech companies from locking consumers into one single brand. On the other hand, some are worried that a strict regulation on connectors might stifle innovation and cause setbacks for technological advancements.
The legislation will still need approval by the EU Parliament and Council later this year and will enter into force 20 days after the official publication.
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