USB-C is now National Law in Europe

“Time to make a charger,” a The European Commission was sent to X on December 28, 2024. Although the proposal applies only to one continent (not all) and only some devices, the Common Charger Directive that is now in force in the European Union indicates that limited devices can throw barrels, USB-micro, or proprietary plugs his.

The Common Charger Directive it requires a “USB-C device” to include “radio devices” that “have a removable or rechargeable battery” and “can be recharged via a wireless charger.” If it has a battery and can be powered by 100 watts via the USB-C network, it is usually under the EU. USB-C specifications. The law applies to devices “put on the market”—shipped to a distributor or consumer—after December 28, even if they were manufactured and sold before that date.

Laptops have until April 2026 to be compatible, but many other products – smartphones, tablets, mobile gaming devices, computer accessories, and wireless headphones – must be powered by USB-C to be sold within the EU from now on. Drones, at the moment, are not covered by the directive, but the EU may approach them.

This command has several features and room for change. Devices with non-rechargeable batteries, such as coin cells or AA/AAA batteries, are bypassed, so most smart home devices are not connected. There are some vague terms for devices that only add to the inside of the box or box, even if the headphones are included in the requirements. Devices that only charge wirelessly are also exempt. And a device can offer an alternative charging method, such as Apple’s MagSafe or proprietary plugs, as long as USB-C charging is available.

Small, Durable “Fast Charging” Bricks

The most important thing that the USB-C requirement has so far is on Apple, which, despite its initial resistance, has He gradually changed his medicine from its lightning connector to USB-C. His A new iMac it comes with a Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad that all connect via USB-C. The company stopped selling the Lightning-powered iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in the EU after December 28.

In addition to simply requiring a USB-C port to be present, the Directive requires that anything with “fast charging” — drawing more than 5 volts, 3 amperes, or 15 watts — activate USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard. This should ensure that they negotiate charging rates with any USB PD-enabled charger instead of requiring them to charge a brick or adapter themselves.

In Europe, devices must indicate on the product box whether they have a charging plug or a central brick. A separate icon will indicate the minimum and maximum power that the device requires to charge and whether or not it is compatible with USB PD.

Can the EU Make Cables and Cables Compatible?

The EU’s official position on the X is heavy with responses from skeptics, meaning that ordering USB-C as “THE charger” could prevent companies from developing other ways to provide power. Many of these objections are addressed in the actual text of the law, as high-voltage devices are exempt, secondary power plugs are allowed, and wireless often gets a license. “What about when USB-D arrives?” it’s something that no one can really answer, although it seems like an absurd reason to avoid dealing with e-waste, fragmentation, and consumer confusion of a major environmental device.

How the Common Charger Directive will be implemented remains to be seen, as that is something left to the member states. Another thing that has not been confirmed is whether the companies will follow this for their international products or only for the production of specific products that are compatible with the EU.

This article appeared first Ars Technica.