The European Union (EU) is pushing for a measure to instate a universal phone charger. This measure would make it required for all producers of electronics to produce a common charger compatible with all smartphones, tablets, e-readers, digital cameras, etc., according to the New York Times.
Back in 2009, there were over 30 different chargers on the market. Then, the European Commission reached an agreement with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Nokia to implement one universal charger. That agreement expired in 2014, and those companies have diverged since then. There are currently three major chargers on the market: USB 2.0 Micro B, USB-C, and Apple’s lightning charger.
Members of the European Parliament believe that a standard charger will provide a better deal for consumers and will reduce electronic waste. Apple, on the other hand, argues that it will unnecessarily disrupt the market for the consumer and stifle innovation.
Years from now, maybe there will only be one true charger on the market, or maybe not. Perhaps the measure will be rendered obsolete due to the rise of wireless charging. Only time will tell.