USB- C for all

On Tuesday, the European Parliament overwhelmingly passed a new law requiring all cell phones, tablets and cameras to be equipped with USB-C charging ports by the end of 2024. The law is expected to hit Apple the hardest, which will have to switch to a standard USB-C port for iPhones sold in the EU.

The law also applies to all phones and headsets up to 100W sold in the EU. Laptops must adopt the common charger by spring 2026.

Supporters say the change would reduce environmental waste and save customers money. Currently, Apple laptops and iPad Pro models can be charged via USB-C. The company has already tested iPhone models that replace the Lightning connector with USB-C.

The law still needs approval from the European Council – but that’s just a formality.
Thus, it could formally come into force in 2023. After that, the member states have one year to implement the regulations.