UK considering making USB-C the common charging standard, following the EU
The UK government is considering adopting USB-C as a common charging standard, seeking input from industry stakeholders, following similar regulations in the EU and India aimed at reducing electronic waste.
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The UK government is considering adopting USB-C as the common charging standard for consumer devices, following similar moves by the European Union and India. The consultation, initiated by the Office for Product Safety and Standards within the Department for Business and Trade, seeks input from manufacturers, importers, distributors, and trade associations on the potential benefits of standardizing charging requirements. The EU's legislation, set to take effect by the end of the year, aims to reduce electronic waste by eliminating proprietary chargers and cables, impacting devices such as smartphones, tablets, and headphones. This shift has already prompted Apple to transition from its Lightning cable to USB-C for its iPhone 15 series. India has also mandated a similar change by March 2025, covering a range of consumer electronics, including feature phones, with laptops given an extended deadline until 2026. The UK’s decision will hinge on the feedback received during the consultation process.
- The UK is considering adopting USB-C as a common charging standard.
- The consultation aims to gather input from various stakeholders in the tech industry.
- The EU's law on USB-C will come into effect by the end of 2024, focusing on reducing e-waste.
- India has set a deadline of March 2025 for manufacturers to comply with similar USB-C requirements.
- The move could lead to a reduction in proprietary chargers and cables across consumer electronics.
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