EU and Belgium Require USB-C Chargers for All Small Devices

Brussels: Starting December 28, 2024, all small and medium devices in the EU must use USB-C chargers to help reduce waste. This change, supported by Sofie Pollin from KU Leuven, took over ten years to finalize. Apple and other companies will adapt, and by April 28, 2026, laptops will also follow these rules. This will help reduce the number of unused chargers at home.

In the past, buying a new mobile device often meant getting yet another different charging cable, leading to a clutter of cables at home. However, this is changing now. In all European Union countries, small and medium devices must use a USB-C port, meaning people only need one type of cable to charge everything. Sofie Pollin, a professor at KU Leuven, believes this is a positive step. It will help cut down on electronic waste, as different cables contribute to a lot of trash. Each year, around 11,000 tons of chargers are thrown away or unused in the EU.

What are the implications of the EU’s mandate for USB-C chargers?

It will take some time before people can recycle their old chargers. Some devices, like digital cameras, may still be used for 5 to 10 years so people won’t switch to USB-C cables right away. They can charge some gadgets wirelessly by placing them on a special pad, but charging from a distance isn’t very efficient yet. The European Union took more than 10 years to agree on this change because it was complicated. People need cables not just for charging but also for transferring data, like moving files from phone to laptop. The challenge was to find a charger that works well for both tasks.

Many tech companies, especially Apple, weren’t happy about changing chargers. They used the Lightning charger and Thunderbolt for a long time, but now they have to adapt. Now, Thunderbolt ports work with USB-C cables. Since the iPhone 15, Apple has started using universal charging ports. Before, people always received a new charger with their phone, but now they can choose not to receive one. Starting April 28, 2026, laptops will also have to follow these new EU rules.