The European Parliament voted on Tuesday to pass the law requiring all rechargeable mobile devices sold in the European Union, regardless of their manufacturer, "to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port" by the end of 2024.
Laptops will fall under the new regulations in 2026. The parliament passed the plan with an overwhelming majority, with 602 votes in favor, 13 against and 8 abstentions. The measure "is part of a broader EU effort to reduce e-waste and to empower consumers to make more sustainable choices," Brussels explained in a press release.
The law requires that all fast-charging devices "have the same charging speed" and enables consumers to not have to buy "a different charger every time they purchase a new device." The decision is expected to primarily affect Apple Inc.'s products.
