USB Type-C® Standardization – Where, When, and What?

The advent of USB Type-C marked a turning point in connectivity. This compact, reversible connector has transformed the way we exchange data and power our devices, offering accelerated data transfer rates and versatile power delivery.

However, when it was first introduced in 2014, USB Type-C was just added to an already diverse catalog of connector types, including DC power connectors and even other USB variants. Although this connector flexibility can be beneficial for OEMs designing electronic devices, it has often burdened consumers with a myriad of different chargers to power each unique device they purchase, further contributing to skyrocketing e-waste. So, what can be done?

The European Union (EU) has taken the first action in mitigating the mounting e-waste crisis through forthcoming legislation that mandates a universal charger built on USB Type-C technology. This article further explores the EU's drive toward USB Type-C standardization, understanding its significance, key milestones, and potential consequences. For OEMs selling to end-users in Europe and aiming to proactively future-proof their products, transitioning to USB Type-C designs becomes pivotal, especially if USB Type-C standardization eventually extends to other regions and applications.

Where will USB Type-C standardization be implemented?

As previously mentioned, the EU will be the first region in the world to implement USB Type-C standardization. Regulatory bodies such as the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) have been working closely with key groups and experts to establish comprehensive guidelines that guarantee the safety and seamless compatibility of USB Type-C connectors, cables, and power delivery protocols.

Notably, USB Type-C emerged as the most viable choice for a universal charging receptacle because the physical USB connector standard had already gained international recognition through CENELEC under the European Standard EN IEC 62680-1-3, while USB Power Delivery had already been outlined under EN IEC 62680-1-2. The Radio Equipment Directive (RED) and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive are other existing regulations that helped to shape USB Type-C standardization.

Given the vast scale of the mobile device market, the European Parliament and the Council ultimately decided that mandatory legislative action at the Union level, as opposed to national measures or voluntary initiatives, was the only way to ensure device compatibility, enhance consumer convenience, and curtail environmental waste.

When does standardization go into effect?

The march toward USB Type-C standardization is not far off. Starting on December 28, 2024, all mobile devices available for sale in the EU will require a USB Type-C charging port and must adhere to USB Power Delivery (PD) specifications. Starting on April 28, 2026, the USB Type-C and PD prerequisites will expand to encompass laptops as well.

Figure 1: USB Type-C standardization will first hit mobile devices in 2024 followed by laptops in 2026 (Image source: Same Sky)

What devices will be regulated?

Any rechargeable electronic device utilizing a wired cable for power delivery up to 100 W will be obligated to feature a USB Type-C receptacle. The categories of devices that will be impacted by the Commission's proposal by the end of 2024 include:

• Handheld mobile phones
• Tablets
• Digital cameras
• Headphones
• Headsets
• Handheld video game consoles
• Portable speakers
• E-readers
• Keyboards
• Mice
• Portable navigation systems
• Earbuds
• Laptops (starting in spring 2026)

It is worth noting that some devices could be exempt if they are too compact to accommodate a USB Type-C receptacle. This could include smartwatches, health trackers, personal care devices, and other wearables.

Furthermore, by the conclusion of 2025 and subsequently every five years, the Commission will periodically evaluate and report on whether the common charger mandate should encompass additional devices due to rapid technological advancements or shifts in the market. Initially addressing devices with power delivery up to 100 W, the EU acknowledges the evolving nature of USB standards. An amendment to the original directive has been made, recognizing the USB-IF's updated USB PD standard, now extending up to 240 W. Devices within this new 240 W power range will also be considered for potential inclusion in the mandate.

Other important notes

While USB Type-C standardization is the main goal of the EU’s new directive, there are a few secondary rules and objectives worth mentioning.

Unbundling

One of the primary objectives of this directive is to mitigate electronic waste by implementing a universal charger for all devices. The concept of "unbundling" is designed to provide consumers with the option to purchase a new device with or without a charger. Initially, unbundling will not be required, but by the conclusion of 2026, the Commission is mandated to deliver a report assessing the effects of unbundling and determining whether it should become a mandatory requirement for manufacturers. Additionally, all product packaging will need to incorporate new labeling to clearly indicate whether a charging device is included with the purchase or not (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Proposed package labeling to indicate if a device is supplied with or without a charger (Image source: Same Sky)

Wireless charging

By the end of 2024, the Commission will also be mandated to urge EU standard organizations to formulate unified charging interfaces and protocols for wireless charging. However, the initial directive is primarily concerned with wired charging via USB Type-C.

Charging specifications

Alongside the "unbundling" labeling shown in Figure 2 above, details concerning charging capabilities and compatible charging devices must be included in user manuals and on packaging, as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3: Labeling must indicate the minimum power (XX) required by the end product to charge and the maximum power (YY) required by the end product to achieve maximum charging speed (Image source: Same Sky)

Looking ahead

The journey toward standardization appears promising, but it will not be without its challenges. Manufacturers may encounter difficulties when adapting to these new requirements, and enforcement could prove difficult. Looking ahead, the ongoing evolution of USB technology will likely introduce more advancements, demanding continued flexibility and cooperation from the EU.

Moreover, the EU's initiatives might only be the initial step in the global adoption of USB Type-C. India, currently the second-largest smartphone market globally, has already slated USB Type-C to be its universal charging port by March of 2025. A number of U.S. senators have also begun advocating for legislation that mirrors the EU's efforts to standardize USB Type-C.

As the EU navigates USB Type-C standardization, it lays the foundation for a future where effortless connectivity becomes the standard, enriching the lives of individuals, powering industries, and safeguarding the environment. Same Sky stands ready with a comprehensive selection of USB Type-C connectors, cables, and power-only USB Type-C receptacles poised to meet the challenges of EU standardization head-on.