If it is up to the European Commission, different types of chargers will soon be a thing of the past. Many types of electronic devices must then be required to be charged via USB-C, including smartphones.
Establishing one type of charging cable is necessary for two reasons, according to the European Commission. To ensure that fewer chargers end up in electronic waste, and because it is more convenient for consumers. Research shows that 38 percent of smartphone owners have been unable to charge their device because the available cables did not fit.
The proposal does not apply to all gadgets. But for smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, wireless speakers and portable (handheld) game consoles. It is now very common that these types of devices can be charged via USB-C. You rarely see a micro USB input.
Apple for the block
Apple, in particular, seems to be put in the loop, because it will stick to a lightning port for its iPhones for the time being. The company says in a response that it is not happy with the plans. It would stand in the way of innovation in charging techniques.
Yet Apple has been embracing USB-c more and more recently. For example, most iPad models can be charged via USB-C, including the new iPad Mini. MacBooks also have USB-C ports. The recently unveiled iPhone 13 Series on the other hand, not.
2024 pass
It will be some time before the new rules come into effect. The proposal must first be adopted, after which the industry will have a year to make the transition. The obligation will then be completed from 2024.
