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Electronics EU Laws and Regulations Legislation

EU Portable Electronic Devices Change Requirements

In June 2022 the European Union passed the Radio Equipment Directive, which includes a provision colloquially known as the “Common Charger Proposal” that will require most new portable electronic devices sold within the EU to use the USB-C charging port by the Autumn of 2024. The intent, according to EU officials, is to make products in the EU more sustainable, reduce electronic waste, and make consumers’ lives easier.

What is the new standard?

The USB-C will become the standard port for thirteen products that fall within the scope of the new law, eliminating the need for consumers to have different chargers for different devices.

What products are concerned?

Thirteen products are within the scope of the new law:

  • By Autumn 2024 or early 2025: mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, portable speakers, headsets, earbuds, earphones, handheld videogame consoles and digital cameras.
     
  • By 2026: laptop devices.

What are the requirements under the new law?

  • USB-C charging port: The product categories listed above will need to have a common (USB-C) charger port from the date of application, which is expected to be Autumn 2024 or early 2025 (2026 for laptop devices).
     
  • Fast charging technology: The charging speed for devices supporting fast charging technology will be harmonized, so that users can charge their devices at the same speed with any compatible charger.
     
  • Unbundling: Manufacturers will be required to offer consumers the choice of purchasing a new electronic device without a new charger. The question of whether the cable should also be unbundled has been deferred for now.
     
  • Consumer information: Packaging must include a pictogram specifying whether a new device comes with a charger, and a label indicating the charging performance.
     
  • Wired Charging Only: The law only applies to charging via a wired cable. The law does not apply to wireless charging.

American companies with questions about the new law, please contact Ms. Tea Jardas, Senior Commercial Specialist at the U.S. Mission to the European Union at tea.jardas@trade.gov. Link to official press release, news and factsheet.