Starting tomorrow, USB-C officially becomes a universal connector. On December 28, EU provisions enter into force.
Three years ago, in 2021, the EU announced a decision that today we can safely call a small revolution. It is what made Lightning consigned to the dustbin of history, and it was also what motivated consumer electronics manufacturers to remove chargers from the boxes. We are talking about establishing USB-C as a single, universal standard for all devices that operate with a power of up to 100 watts. This has been talked about for a long time, but in practice the rules come into force only from December 28. What does this mean for consumers?
USB-C as a universal connector – why does the EU care about it?
Contrary to appearances, the confusion over USB-C is not the first attempt to standardize the connector standard. Already in 2009, the European Commission pressed electronics manufacturers to introduce a single standard of accessories for charging devices, but the micro-USB that was pushed back then did not stand the test of time due to its relatively low mechanical strength and lack of appropriate legal requirements. Years later, the European Commission returned to the discussion about the universal connector for ecological reasons – approximately 11,000 are generated in the EU each year. tons of electronic waste, including from unnecessary chargers.
The EU believes that USB-C in the form of a universal connector will help reduce the need to purchase and have several chargers for different devices. Many manufacturers and users have been preparing for this change for months. This officially comes into force tomorrow, December 28. From now on, every smartphone, headphones or tablet will have to be compatible with USB-C.
Who is affected by the new changes?
Basically, it concerns all of us, i.e. consumers of electronics, but it mainly concerns producers. Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi or Oppo – each company that wants to introduce new devices and accessories to the market will have to ensure compatibility with USB-C, which will simplify production to some extent. Interestingly, this does not only apply to manufacturers of smartphones, computers, game consoles and headphones – the changes are also important for entities from the automotive industry. Many cars already offer users the option of charging a smartphone through ports located near the center console or side door panels – cars that will hit the market after December 28 will have to use USB-C.
From the consumer’s perspective, there are basically only advantages. There is no shortage of critical comments on the Internet, decadently predicting the disappearance of innovation, but let’s face it. USB-C as a universal connector means fewer chargers and cables per household, which means, firstly, convenience, and secondly, saving money in the long run, because one set will last for years, thanks to the relative reliability of USB-C. In addition, USB-C is also characterized by fast charging and Power Delivery support, high data transfer speed and symmetry, which translates into ease of use – in other words, explanations for those who wonder whether USB-C is really a good choice.
I admit that it feels a bit as if this transformation officially began years ago. Since the idea was announced, I have been choosing devices that are compatible with USB-C and today I can confirm that it actually works. I once had an entire drawer filled with various types of cables and chargers – today this vast mass is limited to just two cubes and three cables, although I could further optimize it with a multi-port charger. So there is nothing to be afraid of. Even if you do not consider the arguments about ecology to be valid, the universal USB-C will make everyday use of electronics more convenient.
Stock image from Depositphotos
