EU formally passes law requiring single charging standard for electronics


Washington
CNN Business

A landmark law requiring Apple and other electronics manufacturers to adopt USB-C as the universal charging standard in the European Union removed the latest procedural hurdle after EU member states voted to pass the law on Monday.

The new law, which targets smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, portable speakers and a wide range of other small devices, is the first of its kind in the world. It aims to optimize the number of chargers and cables that consumers have to deal with when purchasing a new device, and to allow users to mix and match devices and chargers even if they come from different manufacturers.

Apple may be among the hardest hit by the law. The iPhone manufacturer has historically required users to charge their mobile devices using a proprietary charging connector known as Lightning; Under the new rules, Apple will be forced to remove Lightning from its devices sold in the EU. That change that Apple is reported testing for iPhone could potentially extend to devices that Apple sells in other markets.

EU law still needs to be signed by the Presidents of the EU Parliament and the European Council, according to releasebut this is considered a formality. Earlier this month, the law received final confirmation from EU legislators.

In addition to covering new small electronics coming to market in late 2024, the rules will also cover larger electronics such as laptops starting in 2026. It also obliges European officials to optimize standards for wireless charging, a technology that is only just getting more widespread.