The European Union’s new regulations requiring universal chargers for electronic devices took effect on Saturday, aiming to simplify consumer experiences and reduce costs.
Manufacturers must now equip all portable electronic devices sold within the 27 EU member states with a USB-C charging port. This includes smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, and keyboards.
The European Parliament announced the decision on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, “All new mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, keyboards, and other electronic devices sold in the EU must now feature a USB-C charging port.”
The EU reiterated that the new rules are intended to streamline daily life for Europeans and cut consumer costs by allowing the purchase of new devices without needing an additional charger. The legislation is also expected to reduce the number of obsolete chargers, contributing to sustainability efforts.
First approved in 2022, the law faced significant opposition from American tech giant Apple, which argued in 2021 that it “stifles innovation.” However, by September 2023, Apple began adopting USB-C charging ports for its devices to comply with the regulations.
Laptop manufacturers have been granted an additional grace period, with a compliance deadline set for early 2026.
While many devices already use USB-C chargers, the new rules are designed to achieve universal standardization across the EU market, marking a significant step in the EU’s efforts to reduce electronic waste and create a more consumer-friendly environment.