Last year, we heard that the
European Commission (EC) has put forward a new proposal that will make USB-C charging necessary for most portable electronics in the European Union (EU).
Today, we are taking one step closer to this reality as the EU, Parliament, and Council negotiators have agreed to
make USB-C the charging standard for a variety of electronics by autumn 2024.
The idea behind the move is to promote sustainability and reduce e-waste by empowering consumers to reuse their old chargers instead of buying new, and often different types of chargers for their devices.
Currently, this legislation applies to the following portables that require a cable for charging:
- Mobile phones
- Tablets
- E-readers
- Earbuds
- Digital cameras
- Headphones and headsets
- Handheld video game consoles
- Portable speakers
- Keyboards
- Computer mice
All of the aforementioned electronic categories will be required to have a USB-C port by autumn 2024. Interestingly, the legislation will also be applicable to laptops around 2026.
Additionally, the EU has stated that consumers will be clearly informed via product documentation about whether their existing charging cables are supported for their new purchases or not. Consumers will also have the option to purchase new devices with or without charging accessories.
