The EU has ruled that all small devices must have USB-C charging ports by autumn of 2024. The incoming law will apply to phones, tablets, handheld video game consoles, and headphones, among others.
The law will seek to cut down on electronics waste and also simplify things for consumers, who will be able to use the same charger for all their devices once the law comes into effect. Currently, Apple iPhones have the company’s own “lightning port”, which forces customers to buy a specific type of charger only compatible with Apple devices.
PCs and laptops will not be subject to the law until 40 months after the legislation is brought into law this summer, as opposed to phone manufacturers, who will have just 24 months.
The legislation is yet to be approved by the European Parliament and European Council, but this is likely just a formality.