European Union’s bid to adopt a common charging port for mobile phones, tablets and headphones took a step forward when an EU panel back the proposal, paving the way for an assembly vote next month.
The European Commission suggest a single mobile charging port more than a decade ago, hoping phone makers would be able to find a common solution.
It propose draft legislation last year, a world first, after they failed to do so.
The European Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee on Wednesday agree with the Commission’s proposal.
Apple’s iPhones are charge from a Lightning cable while Android-based devices are powered using USB-C connectors.
The majority of phones sold in the EU are Android devices.
Alex Agius Saliba, who is leading the debate in parliament, Said :
“With half a billion chargers for portable devices shipped in Europe each year, generating 11,000 to 13,000 tonnes of e-waste, a single charger for mobile phones and other small and medium electronic devices would benefit everyone,”.
The committee wants the USB Type-C port to be the standard for mobile phones, tablets, headphones, e-readers, low-power laptops, keyboards, computer mice, earbuds, smart watches and electronic toys.
Apple has said the proposal would hurt innovation and create a mountain of waste if consumers were force to switch to new chargers.
