The EU has reached an agreement on the introduction of a universal charger.
USB-C is familiar from laptops and Android phones. Adobe Stock / AOP
The European Parliament and the Council of Europe are reportedthat a universal charger with a USB-C connection will be introduced in the EU. In practice, rechargeable electronic devices must therefore support charging via a USB-C cable.
The new setting does not apply to devices that cannot include a USB-C port due to the size of the device. These include, for example, smart watches and activity bracelets.
The aim of the reform is to reduce the amount of electronic waste when the various devices are not supplied with a charger that is only intended for them. In addition, the consumer does not need to purchase a new charger separately when his old charger also works with the new device.
“Under the new rules, consumers will no longer need a different charger and cable every time they buy a new device, and can use the same charger for all their small and medium-sized portable electronic devices. Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, in-ear headphones, digital cameras, headphones, handheld video game consoles and portable speakers that can be charged with a wired cable must be equipped with a USB-C port, regardless of the manufacturer, ”the release said.
In addition, the goal is to harmonize fast charging, so you can benefit from it with any compatible charger. Now, fast chargers from different manufacturers may not work best with phones from other manufacturers.
In addition, consumers need to be provided with clear information on the charging capabilities of their devices so that they know if their current chargers are compatible with them. In addition, the consumer can choose whether to buy the device with or without a charger. Already, for example, Samsung and Apple have begun to leave chargers out of their sales packages.
The regulation is expected to enter into force next autumn, once it has been formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. Equipment manufacturers have two years to adapt to the regulation.
The regulation will have a big impact, especially on Apple, which uses its own Lightning interface. Iltalehti reported last month that Bloomberg had received information that Apple was currently testing the USB-C connection on its phones.