The European Parliament has approved the new rule that will introduce a single standard charging port for mobile phones, tablets and cameras by 2024, a move that is expected to affect iPhone maker Apple, whose iPhones use a different power connector.

It mandates smartphone, laptop and camera manufacturing companies to adopt a standard charger, at least in Europe. The rule also covers e-readers and earbuds. USB Type-C port will be standardised for portable devices and will offer high-quality charging and data transfers.

As per the new law, in the first phase, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port. By the end of the year 2024, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the Eruopean Union will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port, as per the new law. Then from spring 2026, the rule will be extended to laptops.

The implementation of this law will also get rid of the so-called technological "lock-in" effect. Under this effect, a consumer becomes dependent on a single manufacturer. However, with the law in place, buyers will be able to make a much more informed choice about whether or not to buy a new charging device with a new product.

The implementation of the law looks to ensure more reuse of chargers and will help consumers save up to €250 million a year on unnecessary purchases of new chargers. Moreover, it will help out in reducing 11,000 tonnes of e-waste in the EU annually.