The European Union (EU) has made the decision to adopt USB-C as the universal mobile phone charging cord for all new devices. This implies that by fall 2024, Apple will have to transition from its proprietary Lightning Port to USB-C, which is presently used by most other phone makers, in a move the EU argues would benefit customers. Smartphones, as well as any other portable electronic devices such as tablets, cameras, and handheld consoles, will be covered by the measure.
According to the BBC, the UK is not considering making the same move at this moment. While many people may be thrilled with the convergence of charging connections, Apple is unlikely to be. The corporation has long opposed the use of a universal cable (that isn’t theirs), saying that companies should concentrate on the plug that goes into the wall rather than the phone connector.
However, EU officials argue that the moment has come and that it is the phone companies’ fault for failing to come up with a solution. “European consumers have had enough of unsuitable chargers building up in their drawers,” said Margrethe Vestager, executive vice-president of the European Commission’s Europe Fit for the Digital Age initiative, according to the Independent.
“We gave industry ample time to develop own solutions; now is the time for government action to establish a standard charger.” This is a significant victory for our customers and the environment, and it is in keeping with our green and digital goals.” The move is expected to decrease waste caused by several unneeded charges, as well as improve the user experience.
The EU has recommended that all phones, including Apple’s iPhone, use the same charger. The European Commission has proposed that USB-C become the standard across all devices, which may have a significant impact on the smartphone market. Not just phones, but also tablets, cameras, headphones, portable speakers, and handheld gaming systems fall into this category.
It also advises that the sale of phones and their chargers be separated so that individuals don’t wind up with a bunch of chargers they don’t use and that end up in the trash. The decision to demand universal chargers occurred after corporations failed to find a solution on their own, according to Margrethe Vestager, executive vice-president for the European Commission’s Europe Fit for the Digital Age agenda.
