From 2024, USB-C charging cables will be the uniform standard in the EU

The EU Parliament has given its final approval for the unified USB-C charging standard for smartphones and many other devices. Politicians voted almost unanimously on Tuesday for a regulation previously found by negotiators from Parliament and EU countries.

Accordingly, the new requirements will come into effect in 2024. In a final step, the EU countries must reach an agreement, which is scheduled for October 24. However, this is considered a formality, as is the now confirmed majority in the European Parliament.

Legal requirements have long been the subject of debate. More than ten years ago, the committee first discussed the charging cable issue. 14 manufacturers – including Apple – have voluntarily agreed to a unified standard for mobile phone power supplies. When it comes to the power outlets in smartphones and tablet computers, there are three more of what used to be a few dozen types: USB-C, Apple’s Lightning connector, and micro-USB.

In addition to mobile phones, many other devices are now also covered by the new rules. These include tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, e-readers, keyboards and mice. According to information from the EU Parliament, the new directives should lead to consumers in the EU saving €250 million per year by avoiding unnecessary purchases of chargers.

(yam/sda/awp/dpa)