All smartphones sold in the European Union starting in the fall of 2024 must have USB-C charging ports, to reduce e-waste and nuisance to consumers, to an extent that will force Apple iPhones to abandon Lightning plugins.
All smartphones sold in the European Union starting in the fall of 2024 must have USB-C charging ports, to reduce e-waste and nuisance to consumers, to an extent that will force Apple iPhones to abandon Lightning plugins.
The new rules apply not only to smartphones, but also to “all small and medium-sized portable electronic devices,” including tablets, cameras, electronic readers, portable video game consoles, and a wide range of other devices. Hardware manufacturers have 40 more months before the rules also apply to laptops.
The decision has not yet been officially approved by the European Parliament, but it is expected to be a formality.
Apple is ready to feel the weight of the changes, though it has already begun adding USB-C connectors to some devices. The 12-inch MacBook of the 2015 model was Apple’s first device to include USB-C. Since then, the connector has reached several iPad models. Meanwhile, USB-C has become standard even on entry-level smartphones and Android tablets.
“European consumers have long been frustrated with the various chargers built into each new device. They will now be able to use a single charger for all their portable electronics,” said European Parliament spokesman Alex Agius Saliba.
“We are proud to also include laptops, e-readers, headphones, keyboards, computer mice and portable navigation devices, as well as smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones and earphones, portable video game consoles and portable speakers “.
Apple adopted its patented Lightning connector as standard in 2012, when it abandoned the 30-pin dock connector that was introduced with the 3rd generation iPod classic in 2003 and also used by the first iPhone models.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will opt for all iPhones to abandon Lightning or whether it will launch a specific USB-C model for the European market. Apple could also choose to completely abandon a charging connector port in favor of Qi wireless charging and wireless data synchronization.
More Apple news on GadgetGuy.