EU mandates implementation of universal charging solutions
In a significant move towards sustainability and consumer convenience, the European Union's single charger rule came into full effect on December 1st, 2024. This landmark regulation mandates that all portable electronic devices sold within the EU must feature USB-C charging ports and support USB Power Delivery.
The EU Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of this rule in mid-2025, reinforcing the move towards mandatory USB-C. The wide-ranging legislation applies to a multitude of devices, including smartphones, tablets, e-readers, headphones, portable speakers, and handheld video game consoles.
Manufacturers were given a compliance deadline at the end of 2024, after which products sold in the EU must adhere to the USB-C standard. This regulation follows years of push for charger standardization within the EU, aimed at reducing electronic waste and consumer inconvenience.
The impact of the single charger rule is already evident in the market. For instance, Apple's iPhone 15 series switched from Lightning to USB-C to comply with EU rules. Similarly, other large markets, such as India, are aligning their regulations with the EU's rules as of 2025.
The new law is expected to save at least €200 million ($208 million) per year and cut more than a thousand tonnes of EU electronic waste every year. By allowing consumers to purchase a new device without a new charger, it will also reduce the mountain of obsolete chargers.
The European Commission announced "it's time for THE charger" back in X, and the EU Parliament announced this change on social media. The deadline for companies to adapt to the USB-C standard was December 28, 2023.
While most devices already use USB Type-C cables, Apple was more than a little reluctant to comply with the new rule. However, by September 2022, Apple had begun shipping phones with the new USB Type-C port. The initial argument against regulation was that it "stifles innovation," but the EU maintains that the single charger rule will simplify the lives of Europeans and slash costs for consumers.
Makers of laptops have been given extra time, from early 2026, to also follow the USB-C standard. Despite the initial tussle with US tech giant Apple, the single charger rule marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and convenient electronic market within the EU.
- The upcoming iPhone 15 series, as well as various other gadgets such as tablets, e-readers, headphones, portable speakers, handheld video game consoles, and possibly laptops, will reportedly transition from proprietary charging ports to the universal USB-C standard, aligning with the EU's mandate for a single charger.
- In the wake of the EU's single charger rule, consumers may find it more convenient when purchasing smartphones, especially devices like the iPhone 15 series, without needing to buy a new charger due to the standardization on USB-C charging ports, thus reducing the accumulation of obsolete chargers and contributing to a more sustainable electronic market.
