The advent of USB Type-C marks a turning point in connectivity. This compact, reversible connector changes the way we exchange data and power our devices, offering faster data transfer rates and versatile power delivery.
However, when USB Type-C was first introduced in 2014, it was simply added to an already diverse catalog of connector types, including DC power connectors and even other USB variants. While this connector flexibility is a boon to OEMs designing electronic devices, it often burdens consumers by forcing them to use countless different chargers to power each unique device they purchase, further contributing to the surge in e-waste. So, what can be done?
The European Union (EU) is leading the charge to alleviate the growing e-waste crisis with upcoming legislation mandating the use of universal chargers based on USB Type-C technology. This article will take a closer look at the EU’s push for USB Type-C standardization, understanding its significance, key milestones, and potential consequences. For OEMs selling to European end users and wanting to future-proof their products, transitioning to USB Type-C designs is critical, especially if USB Type-C standardization eventually expands to other regions and applications.
Where will USB Type-C standardization take place?
As mentioned earlier, the EU will be the first region in the world to implement USB Type-C standardization. Regulatory bodies such as the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) have been working closely with key organizations and experts to develop comprehensive guidelines to ensure safe and seamless compatibility of USB Type-C connectors, cables, and power delivery protocols.
USB Type-C is the clear choice for a universal charging inlet, as the physical USB connector standard has been internationally recognized through CENELEC’s European standard EN IEC 62680-1-3, while USB Power Delivery is outlined in EN IEC 62680-1-2. Other existing regulations such as the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) have also helped to standardize USB Type-C.
Given the size of the mobile device market, the European Parliament and the Council ultimately decided that mandatory legislative action at the EU level, rather than national measures or voluntary initiatives, was the only way to ensure device compatibility, improve consumer convenience, and reduce environmental waste.
When will standardization occur?
The time to standardize USB Type-C is not far off. Starting December 28, 2024, all mobile devices sold in the EU will need to have a USB Type-C charging port and must comply with the USB Power Delivery (PD) specification. Starting April 28, 2026, the USB Type-C and PD mandate will be extended to laptops.
Which devices will be regulated?
Any rechargeable electronic device that uses a wired power supply of up to 100 W must be equipped with a USB Type-C socket. By the end of 2024, the categories of equipment affected by the Commission's proposal include:
■ Handheld mobile phones
■ Tablets
■ Digital cameras
■ Earphones
■ Headsets
■ Handheld game consoles
■ Portable speakers
■ E-book readers
■ Keyboards
■ Mice
■ Portable navigation systems
■ In-ear headphones
■ Laptops (from spring 2026)
It is worth noting that some devices may be exempted if they are too small to accommodate a USB Type-C socket. This may include smart watches, fitness trackers, personal care devices and other wearables.
In addition, by the end of 2025 and every five years thereafter, the Commission will regularly evaluate and report whether the Universal Charger Directive should cover more devices due to rapid technological advances or changes in the market. While originally targeting devices with a power output of 100 W or less, the EU has acknowledged that USB standards will continue to evolve. The original directive has been revised to recognize the latest USB PD standard from the USB-IF, which now extends up to 240 W. Devices in the new 240 W power range will also be considered for inclusion in the directive’s scope.
Other Important Notes
While USB Type-C standardization is the main goal of the new EU directive, there are a few secondary rules and goals worth mentioning.
■ Unbundling
One of the main goals of the directive is to reduce e-waste by providing a universal charger for all devices. “Unbundling” aims to give consumers the choice of buying a new device with or without a charger. Unbundling was not initially required, but by the end of 2026 the Commission must submit a report evaluating the effects of unbundling and determine whether it should be made mandatory for manufacturers. In addition, all product packaging must be labeled with a new label that clearly indicates whether it comes with a charging device.
■ Wireless charging
By the end of 2024, the European Commission will also be authorized to urge EU standards organizations to develop unified charging interfaces and protocols for wireless charging. However, the initial directive mainly concerns wired charging via USB Type-C.
■ Charging specifications
In addition to the "not bundled" label shown in Figure 2 above, the charging capabilities and compatible charging devices must also be detailed in the user manual and packaging.
■ Looking Ahead
The path to standardization seems promising, but it is not without its challenges. Manufacturers may have difficulty adapting to these new requirements, and enforcement may not be easy. Looking ahead, the continued evolution of USB technology may lead to more advancements, which will require continued flexibility and cooperation from the EU.
In addition, the EU's move may be just the first step in the global adoption of USB Type-C. India, currently the world's second-largest smartphone market, has plans to make USB Type-C its universal charging port by March 2025. Some U.S. senators have also begun advocating legislation to emulate the EU's efforts to standardize USB Type-C.
In pushing for USB Type-C standardization, the EU is laying the foundation for a future where easy connectivity becomes the standard to enrich personal lives, advance industry, and protect the environment. CUI Devices offers a wide range of USB Type-C connectors, cables, and power-only USB Type-C receptacles, ready to take on the EU standardization challenge.
USB Type-C standardization will have a positive impact on the electronic device industry. As mentioned in the article, it not only unifies the physical form of the interface, enhances connectivity and compatibility between devices, but also promotes more efficient data transmission and power supply. These changes make device connections simpler, faster and more flexible, and promote the further development of the mobile device industry. It can be foreseen that with the implementation of the EU USB Type-C standardization, standardization in other regions of the world will also be implemented one after another.