Highlights

• New portable electronic devices sold in the EU must feature USB-C charging ports from December 28, 2024.
• New rules apply to mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, gaming consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice and navigation systems.
• Laptops must comply by April 28, 2026.
• EU expects to reduce 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually and save consumers up to €250 million per year.

The European Union’s Common Charger Directive is officially in force starting December 28th 2024.

This regulation requires all new portable electronic devices sold within the EU to feature USB-C charging ports. This will be significant in simplifying charging and reducing electronic waste.

Highlighting the directive’s benefits, the European Commission stated, “This will reduce the number of chargers you need to buy, help minimize electronic waste and simplify your everyday life.”

The law was initially passed in October 2022 and later gained overwhelming support in the European Parliament with 602 votes in favor, 13 against and 8 abstentions. It aligns with the EU’s broader goals of cutting e-waste and encouraging sustainable consumer habits.

Devices Affected by the New Rules

The following devices must have a USB Type-C port if sold in the EU from now on –

• Mobile phones and tablets
• Digital cameras
• Headphones, headsets, and earbuds
• Handheld gaming consoles
• Portable speakers
• E-readers, keyboards and mice
• Portable navigation systems

The rule applies to devices charged via a wired connection and supporting up to 100W of power regardless of brand or manufacturer.

Laptops will also need to comply starting April 28th 2026 giving manufacturers additional time to make adjustments even though the new rules already apply to portable devices.

Benefits for Consumers and the Environment

• A single USB-C charger can now power multiple devices across brands.
• The EU estimates a reduction of 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually by eliminating incompatible chargers.
• Consumers are expected to save up to €250 million per year by avoiding unnecessary charger purchases.
• Devices using compatible chargers will deliver consistent charging speeds, simplifying the fast charging experience.

This initiative is a win for consumers and the environment promoting sustainable practices while reducing waste and costs across the European Union.

FAQs

Q1. When does the EU’s Common Charger Directive come into effect?

Answer. The European Union’s Common Charger Directive comes into effect starting December 28th 2024.

Q2. What devices are required to have USB-C charging ports under the new EU mandate?

Answer. Devices such as mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, gaming consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice and portable navigation systems must have USB-C charging ports if sold in the EU. Laptops must comply by April 28, 2026.

Q3. What are the expected benefits of the EU’s new USB-C mandate?

Answer. The EU expects to reduce 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually, save consumers up to €250 million per year, and promote fast charging standardisation.

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