Why will Apple switch to USB-C before the end of 2024? 🔌

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In a previous article that you can read here, we announced that an Apple executive had confirmed that the next iPhones would be equipped with the USB-C connector, which many call the « Android charger ». This change is due to a European regulation that I’d like you to read about.

A universal charger for all mobile devices 🔌

For nearly a decade, the European Union has been trying to impose a universal charger on all mobile devices. The USB-C connector has been chosen because it guarantees high quality charging and data transfer.

Behind this measure lies a broad effort to reduce the amount of electronic waste and empower consumers to make more sustainable choices. With a universal charger, consumers will no longer need a different cable or charger for each new device they buy. In addition, the « lock-in effect », a technological dependency of consumers on manufacturers, should disappear. A good example is the famous Lightning connector used by Apple.

All small and medium-sized mobile devices are affected by this new measure: mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headsets, headsets, portable speakers, portable video game consoles, digital readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, in-ear monitors. However, the constraint will apply to laptops from 2026.

Most consumers are unlikely to feel the change. For many years now, the USB-C connector has been the default connector on all Android devices. Even at Apple, all iPads and MacBooks are equipped with it. Only iPhones were not until now. But as mentioned in another article, which you can read here, iPhones are going to switch to USB-C.

More information for consumers 📑

To accompany this change, specific labels will be put in place. They will inform consumers about the charging compatibility of new devices, such as minimum and maximum power ratings. These labels will be important because current chargers offer several voltage/current combinations. As a result, ensuring the compatibility of a charger from one brand with a device from another brand can be a daunting task for the average consumer.

What do you think of this measure? Do you think it will be effective? And which charger do you currently own? An « Android charger » or an « iPhone charger »? Tell us all about it in comments 👇🏾👇🏾

Source : European Parliament