The European Commission, the executive body of the European Union, announced a proposal that requires all manufacturers of mobile phones and electronic products to use a USB-C port on their devices. This new rule could force Apple to use USB-C on iPhones.
This proposal is designed to reduce electronic waste and make it easier for consumers who would theoretically be able to use one charger for multiple devices at once.
If this proposal is passed, electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, cameras, headphones, portable speakers and game consoles are required to use a USB-C port. Consumers can also buy new electronic devices without a charger in the sales package.
European Union Commissioner Thierry Breton said the proposal only covers devices that are recharged using a wired charger, not wireless. If there is a device that only supports wireless charging, it is not required to have a USB-C port.
Before being passed into law, this proposal must pass a vote in the European Parliament. If passed, then all electronic device vendors have 24 months to follow the new rules.
The company that will feel the biggest impact from this proposal is Apple. As is known, Apple continues to use the Lightning connector for the iPhone, in contrast to other mobile phone vendors who have adopted USB-C.
An Apple spokesman said it disagreed with the EU proposal. Interestingly, some Apple products such as the iPad and MacBook already use a USB-C port for charging.
"We remain concerned that stringent regulations requiring one type of connector will discourage innovation rather than encourage it, which will ultimately hurt consumers in Europe and around the world," an Apple spokesperson said. ).
The company made by Steve Jobs has previously voiced its rejection of this proposal. They argue this proposal has the potential to generate more e-waste because consumers will throw away their Lightning accessories if they don't conform to universal standards.
Apple itself has implemented several policies to make its products more environmentally friendly, one of which is by selling iPhones without chargers and earbuds. But this move was criticized by some who felt this policy only helped increase Apple's coffers of income, not to protect the environment.
Apple is also rumored to be developing an iPhone without a Lightning port that relies on a wireless charger for charging. If this EU proposal is passed, it is not impossible that the iPhone without this port will become a reality sooner.