I have an old iPhone with a Lightning charger port. I can’t buy this today in the European Union. (Or anywhere, but we’ll get to that.) Why? Because of the EU’s Common Charger Directive.
“Because the EU has standardised charging ports for mobile phones and other portable electronic devices, all new devices sold in the EU must now support USB-C charging.”
Which devices?
“From 28 December 2024, the rules apply to mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, videogame consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systemsand earbuds sold in the EU.”
So all of this went into effect in 2024?
Um, no.
Laptops
Because there is one additional requirement.
“From 28 April 2026, they will also apply to laptops.”
(Sorry, desktop computer users. You may still have old style power connections.)
For the record, Bredemarket’s U.S. purchased laptop already has a USB-C charging port. Because when the manufacturers were forced to implement this for Europe, it was easier to do it for the rest of the world.
So everyone is happy and enjoying the EU’s listed benefits of consumer convenience, e-waste reduction, and cost savings.
Yes, everyone is happy…for now.
The future
But what happens when wireless charging supports up to 240W? Then you get some REAL cost savings, because manufacturers—especially of small devices—can reduce cost by eliminating charging ports altogether.
Well, except in the EU, where charging mechanisms other than USB-C are illegal. Not just illegal to market: illegal to even sell in the first place.
It’s not that big a deal to throw a USB-C port on to a laptop, which has several ports already.
But a phone?
Even my older iPhone has reduced the number of ports down to one. (Separate headphone jacks disappeared years ago.)
Imagine if Apple, Samsung, and everyone else could sell smartphones with ZERO ports. Not only does this reduce cost, but it helps to preserve the integrity of the device.
And the phone manufacturers will take advantage of this in Asia, the Americas, and Africa.
While still maintaining the government-mandated (and more expensive) USB-C versions in Europe.
Because once a government mandates something, it’s nearly impossible to change.
Bredemarket 