A directive mandating a single USB-C connector for charging tech has come into force in the EU

In the European Union (EU) on Saturday, December 28, a directive came into force, according to which all smartphones and other portable devices on sale must have a single USB Type-C connector for charging. This follows a document published on a portal with EU bills.

The new rule aims to reduce e-waste by unifying the charging connector for gadgets.

In addition, the directive states that portable battery-powered devices must support fast charging with a power of at least 15 watts. Otherwise, their sale in EU countries will be prohibited.

An exception has been made for laptops in the EU. A similar ban will not take effect until April 28, 2026.

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In 2022, the EU reached an agreement on a bill according to which USB Type-C will become a single charging port for all smartphones and tablets in European countries. The possibility of introducing a single connector in devices has been considered in Europe for more than 10 years.

Over the years, Android smartphone manufacturers have switched from micro USB to USB-C, while Apple switched from its proprietary 30-pin connector to Lightning.