The UK government has launched a consultation to explore the possibility of mandating USB-C as the standard charging port for electronic devices, which could align with similar regulations recently adopted by the European Union.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards, part of the Department of Business and Commerce, seeks views from manufacturers, importers, distributors and trade associations on the potential benefits and challenges of implementing a common pricing standard across the UK.

The move comes after the EU passed legislation in 2022 requiring most portable electronic devices to use USB-C for charging by December 2024. The EU move aimed to reduce electronic waste and to improve the interoperability of chargers.

The UK government, which previously said it was not considering similar rules, is currently studying whether adopting USB-C as a standard would benefit businesses, consumers and the environment. The consultation will last eight weeks and end on December 4, 2024.

Key points under consideration include:

• Standardize USB-C as a common charging port
• Implement harmonized fast charging technology
• Allow consumers to purchase devices without a charger
• Introduction of labeling requirements for billing information

The government recognizes that many manufacturers of smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones and laptops have already voluntarily adopted USB-C for the UK market to avoid the complexities of the supply chain. supply. For example, Apple, which has long resisted changing its proprietary Lightning port, adopted USB-C for new iPhones last year, while the latest Lightning products are expected to make the transition next year. However, the government says it is seeking to understand the implications of formally implementing such requirements.

Notably, the new iPad mini, announced Tuesday, will not include a charger in the box for several European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. This change is likely a response to European regulations regarding e-waste, but even some European countries that are not part of the EU are affected.