In a world first, the European Union has agreed to a single charging port for mobile phones,
tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices.
The decision is seen as a blow to Apple (AAPL), which will now have to change the connector
on its iPhones sold in Europe by 2024.
The European Union said the universal charging port will cut down on electronic waste and save
consumers money. The political body came to its decision after private sector companies failed
to reach a common solution on the charging port issue.
European politicians have been pushing for a single mobile charging port for more than a
decade, prompted by complaints from iPhone and Android users about having to switch to
different chargers for their various devices.
iPhones are in a unique position as they are charged from a Lightning cable that’s made
inhouse by Apple, while Android-based devices use more standard USB-C connectors.
Half the chargers sold with mobile phones have a USB micro-B connector, while 29% have a
USB-C connector, and 21% an Apple Lightning connector, according to industry data.
“By autumn 2024, USB Type-C will become the common charging port for all mobile phones,
tablets and cameras in the EU,” the European Parliament said in a written statement, adding
that the change will save around 250 million euros ($267 million U.S.) for consumers.
Apple has warned that the proposal will hurt innovation and create a mountain of electronic
waste.
Laptops will also have to comply with the new legislation within 40 months of it entering into
force. The deal also covers e-readers, earbuds and other technologies sold in Europe.
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