The European Union(EU) introduced a new rule, according to which all smartphones, tablets, cameras etc will have C-type chargers and the rule will come into effect in 2024. Their aim is to reduce electronic waste and encourage consumers to make sustainable choices.
Apple will be most affected by this rule as they will have to change their chargers to USB type-C connectors used by android devices. The company would be at a huge loss as they will have to make a huge shift but according to analysts this make also have a positive impact as customers may be encouraged to purchase the latest gadgets rather than the old ones which do not include type-C chargers. Reacting to this new rule, Apple said that this may affect innovation. Apple had also said that “We are concerned that regulation mandating just one type of connector for all devices on the market will harm European consumers by slowing down the introduction of beneficial innovations in charging standards, including those related to safety and energy efficiency."
The European Union lawmakers had a large majority in the favour of this new law.
While 602 votes were in favour only 13 votes were against this new law. Users have been complaining about the difficulty in switching to different chargers for Apple and Android and this new change has been discussed for many years and is finally being implemented. But this decision will hugely benefit consumers as a single type-C charger would save EUR 250 million which will be around Rs. 2016 crore for consumers and also restrict them from unnecessary charger purchases for different devices. This new rule is likely to be extended to all laptops by 2026.
Having a single charger for all types of devices will also allow consumers to make an informed choice about buying a product with or without a new charger, and end up saving some money. All chargers that support fast charging will now be charged through one single charger only. This will allow consumers to charge all of their devices at the same speed with a single compatible charger. This will also make sure that consumers are not dependent on a single brand for electronic requirements.
According to the EU, currently disposed of and unused chargers account for about 11000 tons of E-waste annually which a likely to reduce with this new uniform policy.
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