The European Union has now mandated that all small and medium-sized portable electronic devices (under 100 watts) sold within its 27-country bloc must be compatible with USB-C ports. This rule, effective at the end of 2024, means that new smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, and video game consoles in the EU will only require a USB-C charger. However, laptops will be exempt until April 28, 2026.
The move comes after the European Parliament voted in October 2022 to make USB-C the standard for charging and data transfers. Apple had initially tried to fight back against the decision, as it had been using its proprietary Lightning ports on devices such as iPhones and iPads. After losing that battle, Apple embraced USB-C with its iPhone 15 lineup in 2023.
The EU decision is not isolated. California has passed legislation that, as of January 1, 2026, all mobile phones and small electronic devices sold in the state must be compatible with USB-C. India is likely following in the footsteps of the EU with similar regulations slated to take effect by June 2025. The Indian government is encouraging a unified charging standard to minimize e-waste and ensure more universal compatibility among devices. The move is also part of India‘s broader plans toward digital transformation and easing consumer electronics.
These global regulatory shifts are part of a bigger trend in the simplification of charging technology and the lessening of e-waste‘s environmental impact. With major markets like the EU, California, and India adopting USB-C, it‘s expected to become the global standard for charging portable devices in the coming years.
