The European Union has reached an interim agreement that will effectively force Apple to change the charging port that uses its smallest electronics.
Last year, the European Commission issued an 18-page directive requiring all electronic devices to use the same type of USB-C charging port.
According to the EU, the measure will reduce clutter and electronic waste because consumers will no longer need a different charging cable each time they purchase a new device.
Apple has not responded to the decision and a spokesman did not tell Sky News whether consumers in the UK and beyond would be affected.
However, its iPhone and AirPod devices, along with several others, are currently using Apple’s custom “Lightning” ports to connect and charge, and the new rules will need to be redesigned in the fall of 2024 or it would not be legal to sell in the EU.
Analysts have suggested that Apple may move all of its devices to USB-C, instead of just selling different versions in the EU.
An earlier attempt to introduce a common cargo port across the block was launched in 2018, but failed.
The company warned that forcing it to adopt a universal charger would “stifle innovation” as well as create “an unprecedented volume of e-waste” and upset millions of people.
Old chargers are estimated to generate around 51,000 tonnes of e-waste a year, and the EU believes a “one-size-fits-all” approach will make customers’ lives easier and help the environment.
“Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, headphones, digital cameras, headphones and earphones, portable video game consoles and portable speakers that are recharged via a wired cable must be equipped with a USB Type C port, regardless of manufacturer. “, said the European Parliament statement.
Image: Some analysts have suggested that Apple will move all of its devices to USB-C
What’s the story?
In 2009, companies such as Apple, Nokia and Samsung signed a voluntary commitment to make the chargers compatible with the micro-USB standard.
Although many adopted micro-USB, Apple went ahead with its own Lightning port in 2012 and sold a micro-USB adapter.
Some phone manufacturers have now evolved into USB-C, which charges faster than micro-USB.
However, Apple only moved USB-C to iPad Pro and MacBook laptops, which means that the changes could affect it disproportionately.
“We don’t think there’s a case for regulation, given that the industry is already moving to using USB Type C via a connector or cable assembly,” Apple said earlier.
“This includes the Apple USB-C power adapter that is compatible with all iPhone and iPad devices.
“This approach is more affordable and convenient for consumers, allows them to charge a wide range of portable electronics, encourages people to reuse their charger, and enables innovation.”