USB-C is mandatory: new EU directive changes loading habits!

USB-C is mandatory: new EU directive changes loading habits!

EU, Europa - December 28, 2024 marks a significant progress in EU standardization: The USB-C charging plug is now becoming a uniform standard for smartphones, tablets and many other devices. All new cell phones, tablets, digital cameras and loudspeakers, headphones, mice and printer must now be equipped with this modern connector. From 2026, the regulation will also be extended to new laptops, such as Vol.at . This decision has a relief for consumers: In the future, many devices can be loaded with the same cable, and new devices can even be sold without separate charger.

a step into the future

The new regulations that aim to reduce electrical waste by almost 1000 tons annually require the manufacturers to clearly state the required charging capacity and quick charging options on the packaging. This will not only reduce the electrical garbage, but also reduce the costs that consumers interfere for unnecessary chargers annually, an estimated around 250 million euros. The manufacturers have also reacted. Apple has already adjusted its iPhone models 15 and 16 accordingly after the company initially opposed the regulation. Even wireless devices must have a USB-C connection in the future, according to rainews.it .

The similar connection regulation is the result of lengthy negotiations that began in 2009, and the EU thus relies on a sustainable future. After early voluntary agreements did not bring the desired success, a binding agreement was reached in 2022, which forces all manufacturers to adapt. This measure should not only increase user -friendliness, but also promote the environmental awareness of consumers by extending the lifespan of cables and devices and reducing the need to buy unnecessary chargers.