As of December 28, a new directive has come into force in the European Union, requiring most new portable devices to be equipped with a USB-C charging port.
The regulation applies to smartphones, tablets, headphones, e-readers, portable speakers, gaming consoles, and other gadgets. However, the requirement for laptops will take effect later, starting on April 28, 2026.
According to the directive, devices with a charging power exceeding 15W must support the universal USB Power Delivery standard. This will allow users to charge devices from different manufacturers with a single charger, simplifying daily life and reducing electronic waste.
The initiative, proposed by the European Commission in 2021, sparked active discussions. Apple, in particular, opposed the measure, arguing that standardization could slow innovation in energy efficiency and safety.
Nevertheless, the company has already started using USB-C ports in its new iPhone models, replacing its proprietary Lightning connector. Most Android device manufacturers had adopted USB-C long ago, so the directive has had the greatest impact on Apple. The EU has been advocating for a universal charging standard since 2009, and this achievement marks a significant step toward unifying standards for mobile devices.
