European Union makes USB-C mandatory for phones: Why this is bad news for Apple and all other details
Is the legislation final
No, the legislation still needs to be approved by the EU Parliament and Council later this year. However, this should be a smooth passage.
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Why is it bad news for Apple
The new legislation will force all future smartphones sold in the EU — including Apple’s iPhone — to come with the universal USB-C port for wired charging by fall 2024. Presently, Apple is the only major smartphone manufacturer to still use a proprietary port (lightning) instead of USB-C. In 2021, Apple sold 241 million iPhones globally, of these about 56 million were sold in Europe.
What EU has to say about ‘targeting’ Apple
On being asked if the EU was specifically targeting Apple during a press conference, Thierry Breton, commissioner for the EU’s internal market, said, “The rule applies to all and sundry. It’s not adopted against anybody.” However, EU is also clear that in two years time, if Apple wants to sell its products within its internal market they will have to abide by the rules, and their device will have to be USB-C.
Why EU wants one charger for everyone
As per EU, the revision is part of a broader effort to address product sustainability, in particular of electronics in the EU market, and to reduce electronic waste. The goal is said to be to avoid a new fragmentation in the market, to continue to reduce environmental waste, ensure consumer convenience and avoid so-called “lock-in” effects created by proprietary charging solutions. EU further says that the rules will encourage technological innovation, “As wireless charging technology becomes more prevalent, the European Commission will be empowered to develop so-called delegated acts, on the interoperability of charging solutions.”
When will the new rules come into effect
The new rules will take effect by fall 2024.
Are the new rules only for smartphones
No. Other than mobile phones, the new EU rules apply to tablets, digital cameras, earbuds, headphones and headsets, handheld videogame consoles, e-readers and portable speakers, rechargeable via a wired cable. All these devices would have to be equipped with a USB Type-C port, regardless of the manufacturer.
Are there any exemptions to this new charging rule
Exemptions would apply only for devices that are too small to have a USB Type-C port, such as smart watches, health trackers and some sports equipment. Laptops will have to comply with the rule at a later date. Laptops can adapt to the requirements by 40 months after the entry into force.
What do the EU’s new rules mean for users
The new rules mean that EU consumers will only need to use a common USB Type-C cable for small and medium-sized rechargeable, portable electronic devices. The new rules aim to make ensure that consumers no longer need a new charger and cable every time they purchase a new device, and can use one charger for all of their small and medium-sized electronic gadgets.
What else do the rules cover other than single charger
The new rules also require clear labelling on new devices about charging options, as well as whether a product includes a charger. This would, EU says, will help avoid confusion and ease purchasing decisions for consumers that often own several different devices and do not always need additional chargers. The charging speed is also harmonised for devices that support fast charging, allowing users to charge their devices at the same speed with any compatible charger.
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