The European Union (EU) has just revealed plans to make it mandatory for all technology companies to use the same type of charging port for phones, tablets, game consoles and many other devices. This affects Apple, the Silicon Valley giant, more than any other brand.
Apple’s iPhones have long used a different charging port than the USB-C connector that Brussels wants to make standard. Most new phones using the Android operating system already have the type of charging port required by the EU. Apple says the regulation will stifle innovation and harm consumers.
However, European Commissioner for Markets and Technology Thierry Breton sees it differently. He thinks that means people no longer need a bunch of different cables and can power all of their devices from the same charger. In addition, many experts estimate that 1,000 tons of e-waste could be avoided due to reduced charger production, and CO2 emissions.2 is also reduced.
Breton also dismissed concerns about the new rule or allegations that it was a measure aimed at Apple. The proposal will now need to be approved by EU member states and lawmakers. After that, companies will have 2 years to adapt the charging port to the type of device.