European Commission Implements New Regulations Provisoirement

The European Union is implementing a standardized USB-C plug to reduce cable clutter for various electronic devices. Stronger power supplies will allow for the charging of both larger and smaller mobile phone batteries. Laptops in the European Union must use a standardized USB-C charger starting today. New regulations require all electronic devices with power consumption up to 240 watts to be chargeable via USB-C starting today. The regulation notes that power transfer capacities may still vary between different USB-C cables. New regulations effective December 28 will cover a wide range of electronic devices sold in the European Union. New regulations effective December 28 require electronic devices including smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, gaming consoles, and portable speakers to use USB-C. The mandate aims to reduce electronic waste and improve consumer convenience across the bloc. The European Commission has decided to provisionally apply a new text without waiting for a ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union. The European Parliament has filed a case regarding the text. The automotive, machine tools, and pharmaceutical sectors are expected to benefit from the decision. Meanwhile, the agricultural sector continues to express anger regarding the treaty.