A common charger for electronic devices has started to apply in the Union

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From Saturday, portable electronic devices sold in the EU, such as mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, e-readers, headphones, and even computer mice, must be equipped with the same charging port, namely USB-C. From April 2026, these requirements will also apply to laptops.

In practice, this means that consumers will be able to charge their devices with a USB-C charger, regardless of the type or brand of the device.

The new regulations will cover, in addition to the aforementioned mobile phones and other small devices, video game consoles, computer keyboards, and portable GPS systems. The harmonized technology will also ensure fast charging of devices and help avoid situations where manufacturers sometimes limited the charging speed of devices.

The way devices are sold will also change, as consumers will be able to purchase devices without an included charger, which will reduce the number of chargers available on the market or unused.

Manufacturers will be required to clearly and legibly inform consumers about the charging specifications, including the power required by the device and whether it is adapted for fast charging. This information will have to be presented visually on the device packaging and included in written form. This is to help buyers understand whether their existing chargers meet the requirements of the new device and, if necessary, help in choosing a compatible charger.

The new system will help consumers reduce the number of newly purchased chargers and save at least 250 million euros per year on unnecessary purchases. According to the European Commission, it is estimated that reducing the production and disposal of new chargers will decrease electronic waste by 980 tons per year. Today, phone chargers alone account for 11,000 tons of e-waste annually.

Work on a common charger in the EU began in 2009, initially as a voluntary agreement among tech companies, which managed to reduce the number of mobile phone chargers on the market from 30 to 3. However, Apple backed out of the agreement, developing its own fast charging port called lightning. In response, the European Commission began working on legal solutions.

The change may go unnoticed by many consumers, as some manufacturers started equipping their devices with USB-C ports even before the EU regulations came into effect. From April 28, 2026, the common charging requirements will also apply to laptops sold in the EU. (28.12.2024)

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