The EU (European Union) has proposed using the same charger for every phone – including Apple's iPhone.
In a proposal that could fundamentally change the smartphone industry, the European Commission said USB-C would become the standard across all devices. That includes not just phones but also tablets, cameras, headphones, portable speakers and portable video game consoles.
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He also suggests selling phones and their chargers separately, so that people don't end up with a bunch of chargers they don't need and end up throwing away.
Apple may have to redesign its iPhones to use USB-C charging ports in line with draft European Union rules aimed at reducing waste and simplifying the lives of consumers who own multiple devices.
“With more and more devices, more and more chargers are being sold that are not necessary,” Thierry Breton, the EU’s industry chief, said in an emailed statement. “We will put an end to this whole situation.”.
Apple opposed the EU's statement, saying it risks hurting innovation that could bring more energy-efficient products to market. The company said it "cares deeply about the customer experience" and shares the Commission's "commitment to protecting the environment.".
People spend about 2.4 billion euros a year on stand-alone chargers that are not supplied with devices, the EU said. It predicts savings of 250 million euros each year as consumers avoid buying new chargers. People tend to own up to three chargers each, it said.
Under the rules, all chargers offer the same charging speed. Phone makers would still be able to sell phones with a charger, as long as they also offer models without. Devices would also be able to have multiple ports, as long as one is USB-C.
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The EU throws away around 11,000 tonnes of chargers every year, some unused, according to the commission. It expects the proposal to reduce the volume by almost 1,000 tonnes.
The rules could come into force two years after they are approved by EU lawmakers and governments who can make changes to the draft.
The EU proposal does not touch on wireless charging. Regulators said they decided not to include headphones, smartwatches and fitness trackers because of their smaller size.
Source of information: bnnbloomberg.ca
