Universal charger rules now a mandate in EU. What it means and what to expect in India?

In 2021, the EU proposed a regulation mandating USB Type-C ports for electronic devices, a move driven by a desire to make life easier for consumers and protect the environment. This decision came into effect in December 2024, aiming to address the frustration of carrying around a drawer full of different chargers for your phone, headphones, tablet, and more. By requiring all devices to use the same type of port, the EU intended to reduce the number of chargers cluttering up our homes and pockets.But it’s not just about convenience its also about E-waste management. The majority of the wasted chargers often end up in landfills, contributing to electronic waste. The EU’s decision was also motivated by a desire to reduce this waste and create a more sustainable future. By promoting the reuse of existing chargers and reducing the need for new ones, they hope to lessen the environmental impact of our tech habits.
So what are the devices this rule applies on, and what are the exceptions?The EU mandate applies to a wide range of small and medium-sized portable electronic devices, including:

• Smartphones
• Tablets
• Digital cameras
• Headphones and headsets
• Handheld video game consoles
• Portable speakers
• E-readers
• Keyboards and mice
• Portable navigation systems
• Earbuds

Essentially, any device that utilizes wired charging falls under this mandate.

Exceptions:

• Medical devices: Devices with specific charging requirements for medical reasons are exempt.
• Very small devices: Extremely small devices where USB-C implementation is technically infeasible may be exempted.

In this phase we also see devices being pulled off of the EU markets, a big example being Apple. The brand will no longer be selling the iPhone SE and the iPhone 14 there since these devices support Apple’s lightning ports.

What is the timeline for India?

In 2022, the Indian government initiated a move towards standardized charging for consumer electronics, engaging in discussions with industry bodies such as MAIT, FICCI, and CII. Following these consultations, USB Type-C was selected as the standardized charging port for smartphones, tablets, and notebooks in India.

Key Provisions

• Smartphones and Tablets: Starting June 2025, all newly manufactured and imported smartphones and tablets sold in India must be equipped with USB Type-C ports.
• Laptop: By the end of 2026, this mandate will be extended to include laptops.

Scope
The regulation covers a broad spectrum of electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, handheld game consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, and earbuds.