The European Union common charger rules are in force for new devices.

The new European Union common devices charger rules have been in force since 28 December 2024.

Council of the EU in October 2022 first approved the Common Charger Derivative and manufacturers were given a transition period to adjust their designs and ensure compliance.

The EU has standardised charging ports for mobile phones and other electronic devices. This implies that all new devices sold in the European Union must support USB-C chargers.

According to the European Commission, the common charger has many benefits. It includes:

• Increasing consumer convenience: You can charge your mobile phone and similar electronic devices with one USB-C charger, regardless of the device brand.
• Reducing e-waste: Discarded and unused chargers account for about 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually. The new rules encourage reusing chargers, which helps to reduce the environmental footprint.
• Saving money: You can now buy new electronic devices without a charger. This will help consumers save approximately €250 million a year on unnecessary charger purchases.
• Harmonising fast charging technology: New rules help to ensure that charging speed is the same when using any compatible charger for a device. 

The rules apply to mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, videogame consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems and earbuds sold in the EU.