The EU Commission presented a draft for an amended Radio Equipment Directive on 23 September 2021.
This includes the following points on the harmonisation of the charging port and fast charging technology:
USB-C as a unified charging port standard for smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, portable speakers and portable video game consoles;
a harmonised fast charging technology for identical charging speeds;
a separate distribution of the charger from the electrical appliance;
improved consumer information requiring manufacturers to provide information on fast charging performance.
With every new electrical appliance, a charger is brought onto the market, sometimes unnecessarily – completely contrary to the goal of making products more sustainable and saving resources. The uniform charging cable is intended to reduce the CO2 footprint in the production of small electrical appliances.
With a transitional period of 24 months from the date of acceptance, the new Radio Equipment Directive is to apply. The draft is currently being voted on in the European Parliament and the European Council.
You can read more information in the EU Commission's proposal here.
