What To Know
- This legislation by the European regulator aims to reduce electronic waste by allowing the use of the same cable and charger for all devices.
- USB-C cables may or may not support protocols like Thunderbolt or different power levels and versions like USB 3 or USB 4 that affect data transfer speeds.
- Even with a device featuring a USB-C port paired with a charger or another device having compatible specs, performance can still suffer due to the cable.
With European legislation mandating USB-C chargers for a range of electronic devices across the Union, some argue this decision could hinder innovation. Is there any truth to this claim?
the new usb-c mandate
As of December 28, 2024, every new small electronic device entering the European market must be equipped with a USB-C charging port. This legislation by the European regulator aims to reduce electronic waste by allowing the use of the same cable and charger for all devices. However, the law, passed in 2022, drew sharp criticism from certain tech giants who were forced to abandon their proprietary connectors.
what is usb-c?
The USB-C connector is distinct from USB standards like USB 3.1; it is a physical connector compatible with all versions of USB, from USB 1.0 onward, and will likely remain compatible with future standards for some time. For comparison, the USB-A connector has been around for nearly three decades and remains relevant.
legislation focused on small devices
Some critics highlight the connector’s limit of 240 watts as potentially restricting future devices. However, current legislation includes a specific list of devices such as mobile phones, tablets, cameras, headphones, gaming consoles, speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, and portable navigation systems. Notably excluded are laptops until April 28, 2026.
- The law applies to devices under 100 watts.
- It mandates compatibility with Power Delivery for fast charging regardless of charger brand.
This doesn’t prevent manufacturers from adding their own standards if they also support Power Delivery.
charging vs data transfer
The legislation covers only charging and not data transfer. If someone invents a new data connector, manufacturers can adopt it. The USB standard for data will continue evolving independently.
a global perspective
Will this strategy ultimately harm innovation? Perhaps only slightly and likely not soon. Furthermore, it applies solely to Europe and does not inhibit innovation worldwide. It also concerns only wired charging while wireless charging continues to evolve without constraints.
the unresolved cable issue
The imposition of USB-C does not solve the main problem—cable compatibility across various standards. USB-C cables may or may not support protocols like Thunderbolt or different power levels and versions like USB 3 or USB 4 that affect data transfer speeds. Even with a device featuring a USB-C port paired with a charger or another device having compatible specs, performance can still suffer due to the cable…
