The European Parliament has taken an important step towards reducing e-waste and simplifying users’ lives by approving the imposition of universal charging in European Union member countries.
This measure, which was approved on October 4, 2022, aims to eliminate the need to accumulate different cables at home and generate less waste.
However, the rule will come into effect in the fall of 2024, two years from now.
The universal charger chosen by the EU is USB Type-C, which is already widely used in most smartphones and other electronic devices, with the exception of Apple’s iPhone.
Precisely, this company has been one of the main opponents to this measure, since its devices use a proprietary connector.
The adoption of the universal charger will affect a wide range of electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, e-books, portable game consoles and portable speakers.
In addition, it will also apply to laptops, although they will have 40 months to adapt from the date of entry into force of the standard.
On the mandatory use of the universal charger in the EU
It is important to note that this measure will apply to all brands marketing their products in the EU, including Apple.
With this decision, the EU finally brings to a close a long debate that has dragged on since 2009, when discussions began on the unification of shippers on a voluntary basis.
In 2014, the EU issued a directive urging member countries to adopt this unification on a voluntary basis, but this initiative was not successful.
The imposition of the universal charger in the EU is a significant step towards standardization and reduction of e-waste.
By using a single type of charger, it simplifies the life of users, who will not have to worry about having different cables for each device.
Environmental purposes
In addition, this measure will contribute to reducing the generation of electronic waste, as it will reduce the need to manufacture and dispose of specific cables and chargers for each brand and model.
The adoption of USB Type-C as a universal charger is a wise choice, as this connector offers advantages such as faster data transfer speed and faster charging.
In addition, its reversible design makes it easy to use, as it does not matter in which orientation the cable is connected.
The universal charger will be mandatory in all EU countries from autumn 2024, using the USB Type-C standard.
Although there has been opposition from some companies, the EU has made an important decision to move towards standardization and sustainability in the field of technology.
