Are All Chargers Changing to USB-C?
- by Joe Weber - updated on 5/1/2023
The days of having to buy new charging cords when you purchase a new device are soon to be a thing of the past. With the passage of a new law in Europe, electronic devices must start making USB-C the standard by 2024.
Why Is the EU Switching to USB-C?
The European Parliament agreed on a landmark new law requiring Apple and other electronics manufacturers to begin using USB-C as the universal standard charger back in June 2022. The law will require all new smartphones, tablets, e-readers, and other portable electronics sold in the European Union (EU) to use USB-C by the fall of 2024. The law was formally adopted by the European Parliament and Council in July 2022 and will come into effect in the fall of 2024.
What Does That Mean for The US?
This switch could have a number of implications for us here in the US. The EU is a large body, and major changes to technology there can have a large impact on everyone.
- It could lead to increased standardization of charging cables and accessories around the world, not just in Europe.
- We as a people will produce less e-waste by eliminating the need to buy new chargers whenever you purchase a new device.
- It may also lead to a more standard charging ecosystem in the US. Right now, there are several different types of chargers being used for different devices including USB-C, micro-USB, Lightning and others. It's too much and can be confusing for consumers.
Arguably the most important benefit is It puts more pressure on Apple, one of the last and biggest holdouts, to switch to a common charger. They have always used proprietary charging for their devices, essentially forcing new Apple adopters to purchase special cords just for those devices.
Some Apple devices, like the newer iPads and iPad Pros, have already begun using USB-C but the iPhones have yet to switch. There are rumors that the iPhone 15 being released later this year will have UBS-C but that has not been confirmed yet.
Why Is USB-C So Much Better Than Other Connections?
USB-C is a vastly better connector than previous USB versions for several reasons:
- It is reversible, meaning that it can be plugged in either way. No more fumbling with the charger to put it in the correct way.
- It can carry more power than previous USB connectors, which means that it can be used to charge larger devices, like laptops and ultra HD computer monitors.
- It is a more durable connector than previous USB connectors and is less likely to break unexpectedly than previous generations.
- It is much faster than previous USB connectors and it can be used to transfer data between devices much faster.
Are Other Devices Going to Switch to USB-C?
Simply, yes. One stipulation with the new law is that by 2026 laptops also need to transition to USB-C as well. We've been seeing a lot of laptop manufacturers already switch to using USB-C to power their laptops so this is not something that will be a major change.
It's important to note that with the USB-C's increased power delivery and faster data transfer rates, these cables can be used for many more applications, not just charging. Some new Ultra High Definition computer monitors use USB-C to connect to your PC and not just HDMI.
As we continue to adapt to this superior technology, many more devices will start to use USB-C to provide power, data or video output.
Batteries Plus Can Help With All of Your USB Needs
2024 is right around the corner. Be ready for the switch by loading up on all of your USB-C cables and chargers at Batteries Plus. Stop by your local store or shop our great selection of USB-C cords and phone accessories.
Learn more about the different USB cables out today in "USB Cables and Connectors: A Guide".