The era of drawers overflowing with incompatible cables is coming to an end. With the official adoption of USB-C as a universal standard in Europe, the continent is turning an important page for users of smartphones, tablets and other electronic devices. An initiative that promises to simplify the consumer experience while supporting a more ecological approach to the problem of electronic waste. What changes can you expect?
December 28, 2024 marks the arrival of USB-C as a mandatory standard
From December 28, 2024, USB-C will be the universal standard for small and medium-sized electronic devices. Smartphones, tablets, headphones, game consoles, e-readers… All these devices will now have to be compatible with a universal charger.
This decision is designed to meet two major objectives. On the one hand, to simplify consumers’ lives by putting an end to the headache of incompatible cables. Secondly, to reduce electronic waste. Currently, discarded chargers account for 11,000 tonnes of waste per year in Europe. With this measure, the transition to a single port promises to reduce this environmental footprint considerably.
Laptops have an additional period to adapt to this standard: compliance is expected by April 2026.
No charger included: what the new regulations mean for you
Manufacturers of electronic devices will be required to offer their products without an included charger. This new rule aims to reduce electronic waste and promote more responsible consumer habits. But what does this mean for you, the consumer?
From now on, all affected devices will have to include a USB-C port for recharging. Manufacturers will also be required to offer their products without an included charger, enabling consumers to avoid buying an accessory they don’t need.
To avoid any confusion, manufacturers will have to indicate on the packaging whether a charger is included or not. This ensures total transparency at the time of purchase, especially if you need a new charger. No more ambiguity: you’ll know exactly what you’re buying.
A device sold without a charger could logically be offered at a slightly lower price. Although it depends on the brands’ commercial strategies, this separation should enable you to pay only for what you really need. This has yet to be confirmed, but the idea is to avoid imposing on you an accessory already present in your home.
ā ļøHackers exploit malicious USB-C cables: how to protect yourself?
USB-C mandatory for laptops from April 2026
From April 26, 2026, all laptops sold in Europe will also have to adopt USB-C as a universal charging port.
Unlike smartphones and other simpler devices, laptops often have very high energy requirements. This requires technical adaptations to ensure that USB-C can efficiently power all models, from lightweight ultrabooks to more powerful computers. This extra time gives manufacturers the time they need to align their products with the standard.
