CEM REPORT | A new rule has been agree by the European lawmakers to make all smartphones, tablets, and headphones, including Apple’s iPhones to carry the USB-C for wired charging.
The European Union Parliament announced its decision through a statement where it said the new law will ensure more re-use of chargers and will help consumers save more on unnecessary charger purchases.
“These new obligations will lead to more re-use of chargers and will help consumers save up to €250 million a year on unnecessary charger purchases. Disposed of and unused chargers are estimated to represent about 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually.”
The EU Parliament added that the new rule will ensure consumers will no longer need a different charging device and cable every time they purchase a new device and can use one charger for all small and medium-sized portable electronic devices.
The rule which will come into effect by 2024 is directed to all device makers selling to the European markets, however, the rule would not apply to products placed on the market before the agreed date.
European Parliament’s rapporteur, Alex Agius Saliba speaking on the agreement said,
“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.”
“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 labeling for consumers,”
This decision brings Apple’s complaints and debate that such regulation would hamper innovation and harm consumers to a close.
Although the rule applies to products being sold in the EU, it is expected that such products will filter down to other markets, including Nigeria.
While Apple has remained indifferent to android charger USB-C charger and maintained its distinct flat-mouth charger but with the new rule, Apple may have to apply the same design to all its products going forward.