EU Rules May Force USB-C As Standard Charging Port For All Phones

The European Commission EC, voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to propose legislation compelling smartphone companies to commit to a single charging standard in the Europe. USB-C is already widely adopted by manufacturers.

The proposed changes would apply to the charging port on the device body, but not on the end of the cable connecting to a plug which could still be USB-C or USB-A connector. The proposal will also standardize fast charging speeds -- meaning devices capable of fast charging will be charged at the same speeds.

The proposed rules will apply to smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, portable speakers and handheld video game consoles.

In 2009, there were more than 30 different chargers, whereas now most models stick to three - the USB-C, Lightning and USB micro-B.

The proposed rule would force Apple to ditch its proprietary Lightning cable. The iphone manufacturer would, in theory, be hurt more than other manufacturers. Most Android phone manufacturers have already switched to USB-C.

An Apple spokesperson said last week in a statement that the: “Legislation would have a direct negative impact by disrupting the hundreds of millions of active devices and accessories used by our European customers and even more Apple customers worldwide, creating an unprecedented volume of electronic waste and greatly inconveniencing users.”

The legislative proposal will be debated by the European Parliament and national governments. MEPs and member states may suggest amendments to the proposal.

The EC hopes that the proposal will be officially enacted by 2022 -- after which member states usually have two years to enact the rules into national law, and manufacturers will have 24 months to change their charging ports.

These may all be moot points in a couple of years. Many new smartphones already have wireless charging feature built in. Apple may be eyeing this option rather than resisting a potential EU law.

Another headphone jack moment for Apple users? Reports surfaced last week that Apple is working on a 2021 iPhone that can be charged wirelessly—and only wirelessly.