Tired of fumbling with a myriad of different cables and chargers every time you need to charge your electronic devices? There’s good news! Since 28 December 2024, the European Union has introduced legislation that requires the adoption of the USB-C port as a universal standard for charging smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones and many other devices.
This revolution, long awaited, promises to make the lives of millions of European citizens easierputting an end to the annoying tangle of cables that often accumulates in our homes. The adoption of a universal charger will bring with it a series of benefits for both consumers and the environment.
A saving for your wallet and for the Planet
According to estimates by the European Commission, the new legislation will allow consumers to save around 250 million euros per yeareliminating the need to buy a different charger for each new device, and then abandon them in some drawer.
But it’s not just a question of wallet. The introduction of the universal charger will also have a significant impact on the environment. It is estimated that approximately 11,000 tons of electronic waste from chargers. The new legislation, by encouraging their reuse, will help to drastically reduce this number, limiting the environmental impact linked to the production and disposal of these devices.
Greater convenience and charging speed
Imagine being able to use the same charger to power your smartphone, tablet, headphones and camera. With the introduction of the USB-C port as standard, this scenario will become a reality. Goodbye to the frustration of having to look for the right charger every time a device runs out of battery!
Furthermore, the new regulation will help harmonize fast charging technologyguaranteeing the same charging speed regardless of the charger used, as long as it is compatible with the device.
A step towards a more sustainable future
The introduction of the universal charger represents an important step towards a more sustainable future, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal. Reducing electronic waste, promoting the reuse of devices and simplifying consumers’ lives are just some of the advantages of this legislation, which also has as its objectives the promotion of a circular and environmentally friendly economy.
What changes for consumers?
Starting from 28 December 2024, all new electronic devices sold in the EU, including smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, video game consoles and many others, will have to be equipped with a USB-C port for charging. Laptop manufacturers will have until April 28, 2026 to comply with the new regulation.
It is important to underline that the regulation does not prohibit the use of proprietary charging technologies, but requires the presence of the USB-C port as a universal standard, thus guaranteeing compatibility with a wide range of chargers.
