Technology: The universal charger now mandatory throughout the European Union

This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:

Hibapress

The universal charger has, since this Saturday, been compulsory throughout the European Union, with mobile devices sold in the 27 member states having to be equipped with a USB-C port.

This new measure aims to limit the production of electronic waste, while simplifying the lives of consumers, who will now benefit from a universal charging solution.

The new EU rules state that “all new mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, earphones and headsets, portable video game consoles and portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems and headphones sold in the EU” must have a USB Type-C charging port.

From April 28, 2026, this requirement will also apply to laptops.

The directive, adopted in October 2022 by the European Parliament, also harmonizes requirements for fast charging and offers consumers the option of not receiving a new charger with each device purchase.

According to the European Chamber, manufacturers are required to update their packaging to clearly display information regarding charging characteristics and accessories included with the purchased product.

This common charging solution, in addition to allowing consumers to save money by avoiding the purchase of unnecessary chargers, contributes, we note, to addressing the issue of the sustainability of electronic products on the European market .

Discarded or unused chargers represent around 11,000 tonnes of electronic waste per year in the EU, according to estimates by the European Commission.