A European Union (EU) directive requiring USB-C charging ports for mobile phones and other electronic devices is now in force, marking a major step toward reducing e-waste and simplifying charging.
The new rules mandate USB-C compatibility for devices such as digital cameras, headphones, and handheld gaming consoles. Laptops will follow by April 2026, giving manufacturers time to adapt.
The European Commission estimates the regulation will save consumers €250 million annually and eliminate 980 tons of electronic waste each year. The directive also standardizes charging speeds and ensures buyers receive information on charger performance.
“This reduction in unnecessary charger purchases will also lead to an estimated 980-tonne reduction in electronic waste in the EU per year, which is in keeping with Ireland’s goals of moving to a circular economy,” said Ossian Smyth, Ireland’s Minister of State for Communications and the Circular Economy.
Last year, Apple replaced its “lightning” charger ports with a universal USB-C charger on its newest iPhone models in anticipation of the EU’s directive.
