EU formally adopts law requiring Apple to support USB-C chargers

Brussels: EU has adopted a landmark law that will require Apple and other manufacturers to adopt USB-C as a universal charger in the EU. The final procedural hurdle was cleared after EU member states approved the legislation.

Targeting smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, portable speakers and other electronics, this law is the first of its kind. It aims to “streamline the number of chargers and cables consumers must contend with when they purchase a new device, and to allow users to mix and match devices and chargers, even if they were produced by different manufacturers,” reported CNN.

Apple is expected to be the most affected by this legislation as the company has historically required users to charge its mobile devices using a proprietary charging connector known as Lightning. The change to charging devices will potentially extend to Apple’s other markets as well.

The EU law is still waiting a sign by the presidents of the EU parliament and European Council. From 2026, the law will extend to laptop chargers as well for EU members.