EU Regulation on Standardized Chargers Takes Effect
New Rule Simplifies Life for Consumers and Reduces Electronic Waste
As of Saturday, December 28, 2024, a new European regulation requiring all new smartphones, tablets, and cameras to be equipped with a standardized charger has come into effect. Manufacturers are now obligated to provide a USB-C charger for all portable electronic devices sold in the 27-member EU. This includes mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, speakers, keyboards, and other electronic devices.
USB-C ports can charge up to 100 watts, transfer data at speeds of up to 40 gigabits per second, and be used to connect devices to external screens.
According to the EU, the single charger rule will simplify life for citizens and reduce costs for consumers, allowing them to buy a new device without needing a new charger. This change will also reduce the number of obsolete chargers. The European Commission estimates that European consumers will save around €200 million annually. The amount of electronic waste from unused chargers is expected to decrease by approximately 1,000 tons per year in the EU.
The law was first adopted in 2022, following a standoff with American tech giant Apple. Laptop manufacturers were also granted an additional deadline, until the beginning of 2026, to comply with the rules. Most devices already use these chargers, but Apple initially objected, arguing that the law stifles innovation. However, by September 2023, the company had adopted the new port for recharging phones.
As importers in Tunisia, it is essential to consider this factor when making purchasing decisions for electronic devices. If you still use an old phone with a different type of charger, be sure to have a spare cable, as it may become difficult to find one in a few months.
