The European Union has taken another step in its crusade against cables. As of yesterday, laptops sold in the EU must include the USB-C connector for charging, following directive 2022/2380. After being applied to mobile phones and tablets in 2024, the measure aims to reduce electronic waste and save users 250 million euros. The catch: you will have to buy the charger separately.
How the USB-C directive affects laptop manufacturers 🔌
The regulation requires that all new laptops, from ultrabooks to workstations, incorporate at least one USB-C port compatible with the USB PD (Power Delivery) charging standard. This means that brands like Dell, Lenovo, or Apple must redesign their proprietary connectors. Manufacturers have a 24-month adaptation period for existing models. The minimum charging power varies by device, but the goal is to unify voltages and avoid the chaos of incompatible chargers.
The fine print of the single charger: goodbye to the free brick 💸
The funny part is that while the EU celebrates waste reduction, users discover that the charger no longer comes in the box. Yes, the same one you had in a drawer since 2015 and that no longer works. Now you have to buy a new one because your phone's USB-C doesn't provide enough power for the laptop. The EU estimates savings of 250 million, but your wallet will surely feel the opposite. Ironies of progress.