The news caused an earthquake in the world of smartphones: the European Union has decided to impose the universal USB-C charger for all mobile devices by the end of 2024. A measure that puts Apple against the wall, while the company desperately clings to its proprietary Lightning connector.
The universal charger: A historic turning point in smartphone charging
It’s a small revolution that is being prepared in Brussels. After years of procrastination, the EU has finally drawn the ultimate weapon: the regulatory obligation of a single USB-C charger for all mobile phones, tablets and portable consoles marketed in Europe. The measure will come into force from December 28, 2024as announced in Official newspaper.
For laptopsyou will have to wait a little longer: the deadline is set for 26 avril 2026. But the message is clear: the days of the big bazaar in the world of chargers are now numbered.
The end of a 15-year soap opera
This decision puts an end to a series that started… 15 years ago! There European Commission has in fact been pleading for the harmonization of mobile phone chargers since 2009, arguing benefits for consumers and the environment.
Despite timid progress leading to a reduction in the number of connectors, the industry has long resisted real standardization. Blame it on Apple and its famous Lightning connectorlaunched in 2012.
Apple cornered by Brussels
The American giant is in fact the big loser in this regulatory standoff. While USB-C is now established as a standard on Android, Apple is resisting by clinging to its in-house Lightning connector. A technological but also financial choice, this entry generating significant income in licenses.
But with this new regulation, the apple brand will have no other choice but to switch the iPhone and its other devices to USB-C by the end of 2024. A transition which promises to be delicate for Tim Cook’s teams.
Especially since some competitorsas Samsungont already anticipated this change by adopting USB-C. Same observation for laptop PCs, massively equipped with USB-C. The pressure will be maximum on Apple not to fall behind technologically.
A positive impact for consumers
If the manufacturers complain, this regulation sounds like excellent news for millions of consumers. No more headache of incompatible chargers and black holes of missing batteries! Thanks to USB-C, it will be possible to recharge all your equipment with the same cable.
By standardizing connectivity, Brussels also intends to fight against the planned obsolescence of chargers and reduce electronic waste. The Commission considers that the single charger will avoid 11,000 tonnes of waste per year.
Enough to simplify users’ daily lives, while reducing the environmental footprint of digital technology in Europe. Apple has been warned: the era of the single charger has dawned. The tech giants will have to comply by 2025!
My name is Ethan, I’m 30 years old, and I’m the founder of this magazine. After studying journalism, I quickly decided to go freelance to be able to write as I wanted and talk about my true passions. I aim to create an information hub where French and international news is treated seriously and with insight. My goal is to enlighten my readers’ daily lives and encourage a deeper understanding of current issues.
