“Europe’s Tech Revolution: Embracing USB-C as the Standard Connector”

“It’s time for THE charger,” the European Commission published on X on December 28, 2024. While the sentiment is relevant only to a single continent (and not its entirety) and specific devices, the Common Charger Directive now implemented within the European Union indicates that significantly fewer gadgets will impose barrels, USB-micro, or proprietary plugs on their users.

The Common Charger Directive stipulates that a “USB-C receptacle” must be installed on “radio equipment” that is “equipped with a removable or embedded rechargeable battery” and “can be recharged through wired charging.” If a device has a battery and can be powered by up to 100 watts through a USB-C connection, it is typically subject to the EU’s USB-C stipulations. The directive targets devices “placed on the market”—distributed to a seller or buyer—after December 28, even if they were initially designed and sold prior to that date.

Laptops have until April 2026 to adhere, but most other devices—smartphones, tablets, handheld gaming systems, computer accessories, and wireless earbuds—must be powered by USB-C for sale within the EU from now forward. Drones are currently mostly untouched by the directive, though the EU is likely to address them in the future.

The directive includes various exceptions and some flexibility. Devices with non-rechargeable batteries, such as coin cells or AA/AAA batteries, are exempt, meaning many smart home devices are not affected. There is some ambiguous wording regarding devices that recharge within a case or enclosure, although earbud cases are specifically included in the requirement. Devices that only support wireless charging are also excluded. Additionally, a device can provide another charging option, like Apple’s MagSafe or proprietary plugs, as long as USB-C charging is also offered.

Fewer Bricks, Standardized “Fast Charging”

The most notable influence this USB-C mandate has had to date is on Apple, which, despite initial resistance, has gradually transitioned its products from the proprietary Lightning connector to USB-C. The latest iMac includes a Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad that all connect via USB-C. The company ceased selling the Lightning-charging iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in the EU after December 28.

Alongside mandating a USB-C port, the Directive requires that any device offering “fast charging”—drawing more than 5 volts, 3 amperes, or 15 watts—must support the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard. This aims to ensure that they effectively negotiate charging rates with any USB PD charger instead of depending on their proprietary charging brick or adapter.

In Europe, products are required to indicate on their packaging whether they come with a charging plug or mid-cord brick. A separate label will denote the minimum and maximum power required to charge a device and whether it is compatible with USB PD.

Can the EU Make Cables and Cords Harmonize?

The EU’s celebratory post on X has garnered significant responses from skeptics, implying that establishing USB-C as “THE charger” could hinder companies from innovating new power delivery methods. Many of these concerns are addressed in the actual provisions of the law, as more powerful devices are exempt, secondary power plugs are permitted, and wireless charging is largely exempt. “What happens when USB-D emerges?” is a question that remains unanswered, even though it appears to be a vague rationale to avoid tackling the issues of e-waste, fragmentation, and consumer bewilderment within the broader device charging ecosystem.

How the Common Charger Directive will be upheld is still unknown, as its enforcement is left to individual member countries. It is also uncertain whether companies will adhere to it across their international product ranges or create specific EU-compliant items.

This article first appeared on Ars Technica.