In a historic decision and a world first, negotiators from the European Parliament and the Commission today agreed in principle to implement common chargers for all electronic devices by autumn 2024.
Mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, e-readers, wireless headsets, digital cameras, portable speakers and handheld video consoles will have to have a USB Type-C charger port exclusively, no matter what brand they are.
This decision naturally affects Apple, essentially the only company that has its own chargers with Lightning-type cables. Apple has, after all, repeatedly expressed its opposition to this plan, which was first floated more than a decade ago.
In addition, the charging speed would be harmonized for devices that support fast charging, allowing users to charge their devices at the same speed as any compatible charger.
Laptop manufacturers would also have to adopt common chargers, but would have a 40-month grace period (just over 3 years) after 2024 to adapt.
No more selling the charger separately from the mobile
According to the European directive, consumers should be provided with all necessary clarifications on the characteristics of new devices so that they know whether their current chargers are compatible.
Another point that may cause a reaction from manufacturers is that the European Union explicitly states in its directive that consumers should have the choice to buy an electronic device with or without its charger. Some companies (especially Apple) sell separate gadgets, such as chargers and headphones.
"Thanks to the agreement we reached this morning, consumers will save almost €250 million," said European Industry Commissioner Thierry Breton.
The European Commission expects that with these new guidelines people will use more of their old chargers instead of buying new ones. It is estimated that discarded chargers amount to 11,000 tonnes a year. At the same time, it encourages the development of new technologies such as wireless charging.
According to a Commission survey, half of the chargers sold in 2018 had a USB micro-B port, 29% had a USB-C port and 21% used a Lightning cable.
After the summer, this project should be formally approved by the European Parliament and the European Council.
Source: fortunegreece.com
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