As Reuters anticipated, the European Commission has announced a series of measures that will finally put an end to the incompatibilities of device chargers and the excess of electronic waste. Among them, the obligation that all manufacturers use USB-C port.
Specifically, the EU proposes a common charging port for smartphones, tablets, cameras, laptops, game consoles and headphones: the USB-C . It is about connection that is very present today. However, some brands – especially Apple – are reluctant to implement in some models. The inclusion of a single port will also bring about a “harmonization of fast charging technology”. With this measure, companies will not be able to limit the charging power in their devices and must guarantee that the speed is the same when using a compatible charger from another manufacturer.
On the other hand, the European Union wants electronic products not to include a charger in the box , but to be sold separately. This is something that some companies, such as Apple, Samsung or Xiaomi, have started to adopt in recent months. It will make more sense, yes, when the inclusion of the single port comes into force.
Finally, manufacturers must provide the consumer with information related to charging , such as power or the possibility that the product supports fast charging. This will make it easier to check whether existing chargers are suitable for a new product. These measures, according to the EU, will save consumers more than 250 million euros in the purchase of chargers and charging accessories. It will also mean a saving in electronic waste of one thousand tons per year.
Apple stands against USB-C as a single port
Apple has been quick to respond (via Reuters) to the new measures proposed by the European Commission. The Cupertino company, which is reluctant to eliminate the Lightning port and adopt USB-C in its iPhone, emphasizes that the inclusion of a single port does not favor innovation , but rather “represses it “. Something that could harm consumers in Europe and around the world.
“We remain concerned that strict regulation requiring only one type of connector stifles rather than encourages innovation, which in turn will harm consumers in Europe and around the world.”
The EU, for its part, stresses that these measures are not only aimed at Apple. He assures that they have been carried out because the companies, after 10 years of negotiations, have not been able to reach an agreement on the use of a common charger. The number of chargers in smartphones, however, has been reduced from 30 to 3, something that the administration highlights in its statement.
Now, the European Union proposal will have to be adopted by the European Parliament and the Council. Includes a 24-month transition period so that companies can adapt.
