EU approves adoption of world’s first single charger rule

USB-C chargers will turn into the EU normal for all telephones, tablets and cameras by 2024.

The European Parliament has adopted a common charger obligation [File: Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP]

The European Parliament has accredited a brand new rule that can introduce a single charging port for cell phones, tablets and cameras by 2024 within the European Union in a world-first measure that's anticipated to have an effect on iPhone maker Apple greater than its rivals.

Tuesday’s transfer confirms an earlier settlement amongst EU establishments and can make USB-C connectors utilized by Android-based units the EU normal, forcing Apple to vary its charging port for iPhones and different units.

The change had been mentioned for years and was prompted by complaints from iPhone and Android customers about having to change to completely different chargers for his or her units.

“As wi-fi charging turns into extra prevalent, the European Fee must harmonise interoperability necessities by the top of 2024 to keep away from having a adverse affect on shoppers and the setting. This may also eliminate the so-called technological ‘lock-in’ impact, whereby a shopper turns into depending on a single producer,” the European Parliament mentioned in a press launch.

“These new obligations will result in extra re-use of chargers and can assist shoppers save as much as 250 million euros ($246m) a yr on pointless charger purchases. Disposed of and unused chargers account for about 11 000 tonnes of e-waste yearly within the EU.”

Amongst large suppliers of digital units to European prospects, Apple is predicted to be among the many most affected, however analysts additionally anticipate a attainable optimistic impact as a result of it might encourage customers to purchase the corporate’s newest devices as a substitute of ones with out USB-C.

The deal additionally covers e-readers, earbuds and different applied sciences, which means it might additionally have an effect on Samsung, Huawei and different system makers, analysts mentioned.

EU politicians supported the reform with a big majority, with 602 votes in favour and solely 13 towards.