Goodbye to the Lightning cable: today the law for the single USB-C charger of the European Union comes into force

The European Union premieres today the law that will make all devices electronics sold in the single market use a single USB-C charger, although manufacturers will have two years to implement the regulation, which will become mandatory at the end of 2024.

The aim of the new EU legislation is to make life easier for consumers, but also to reduce the technological waste generated in the EU from mobile phones, tablets, e-books, digital cameras, game consoles and headsets.

SIGHT: iPhone 14: Crash detection feature still sends false alarms, despite iOS 16 patches

The current system, in which USB 2.0 Micro B, USB-C and Lightning (exclusive to Apple) shared space thanks to a voluntary agreement in 2009, still contributed to the generation of up to 11,000 tons of electronic waste per year, according to the European Commission estimates.

The new regulation aims to tackle this figure by allowing consumers to buy new electronic devices without having to purchase an additional charger (which will save citizens up to 250 million euros per year in unnecessary chargers) and also equalizes the speed for devices that allow the fast charging, no matter what charger is being used.

SIGHT: Huawei: AppGallery downloads grew by 56% outside of China

Initially, laptops will not be bound by the new standards, but they will have to comply with them at the latest three and a half years after the entry into force of the standard, that is, by mid-2028.

Source: Elcomercio

Callum

I have worked in the news industry for over 10 years. I have a vast amount of experience in writing and reporting. I have also worked as an author for a number of years, writing about technology and other topics.

I am a highly skilled and experienced journalist, with a keen eye for detail. I am also an excellent communicator, with superb writing skills. I am passionate about technology and its impact on our world. I am also very interested in current affairs and the latest news stories.

I am a hardworking and dedicated professional, who always strives to produce the best possible work. I am also a team player, who is always willing to help out others.