Key information
- All new small electronic devices sold in the EU, and therefore also in Belgium, from December 28, 2024 will have to use the same type of USB-C charger.
- A single cable can power phones, wireless headphones, tablets, gaming consoles, e-readers, keyboards and cameras with a compatible charger having an output power of 100 watts or less.
- Companies will have to sell new electronic devices separately from their chargers starting December 28, 2024.
From December 28, 2024, all new small electronic devices sold in Belgium will use the same type of USB-C charger. This universal charging solution aims to eliminate the clutter of multiple chargers often found in homes.
New European regulations require that phones, wireless headphones, tablets, games consoles, e-readers, keyboards and cameras all have the same charging port. A single cable can then be used to power these different devices. If existing devices are not affected, all new products must be equipped with a compatible charger with an output power of 100 watts or less. This standardization ensures consistent charging speeds across different brands, overcoming previous disparities in charging capabilities.
Main features of the regulation
Laptops, however, will not immediately be subject to this rule and will have until April 26, 2026 to comply. Additionally, starting December 28, 2024, companies will have to sell new electronic devices separately from their chargers. Consumers will then be able to choose to only purchase a charger when needed, which will reduce the accumulation of unnecessary cables. A pictogram on the packaging will clearly indicate whether the device comes with a charger or not.
Implementation and impact
The European Union first proposed this regulation on universal chargers in 2009, and it was finally adopted in 2022. Belgium transposed this directive into its national law on December 28, 2023, highlighting the alignment of digital transitions and ecological. The EU estimates that this measure will save 250 million euros and 11,000 tonnes of electronic waste per year.
Apple initially opposed the regulation, citing its existing “Lightning” technology, used in more than a billion devices worldwide, and arguing it would stifle innovation and harm consumers. However, the company has since adopted USB-C for its iPhone 15 and 16, which will be released in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
In Belgium, sales of new devices are also expected to be decoupled from sales of chargers, allowing consumers to choose and reduce cable disposal. The measure is part of the EU's wider strategy to reduce e-waste flows and costs for consumers.
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