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'We have no choice': Apple responds to EU mandate on USB type-C charger

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Amrutha Pagad
Amrutha PagadOct 27, 2022 | 14:40

'We have no choice': Apple responds to EU mandate on USB type-C charger

Apple says they have no choice but to comply with EU charger rules. Photo: Getty Images and EU

iPhone-maker Apple has finally broken its silence on the European Union's mandate on USB-C charging port requirement. Speaking at a Wall Street Journal event, the US-based company's senior executive said that they have no choice but to comply with the mandate.

Obviously, we'll have to comply; we have no choice. The Europeans are the ones dictating timing for European customers.
- Apple senior executive Greg Joswiak
  • This decision means that iPhone 15 can be launched with USB-C-type charging ports.

The EU mandate: Earlier this month, the EU officially adopted a new law requiring all small electronic devices from mobile phones to wireless headphones and tablets to mandatorily have USB type-C charging port.

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  • While this is no big change for most android devices, it is a different matter with Apple. Most iPhone users, who forget to carry their chargers around at all times, will understand the pain of finding the 'iPhone charger'.

  • iPhones come with lightning port chargers, a signature of Apple. While some of Apple's devices like the latest iPads have adopted the USB type-C charging ports, the company had been reluctant to bring the same change to iPhones. 
  • Now, while it is confirmed that Apple will roll out iPhones with USB-C charging ports in the EU, it is unknown whether it will extend the change worldwide or to other parts of the world. 

The deadline: EU has given tech companies time till Autumn 2024 to bring in the changes. 

  • As for Apple, the company has two choices - either to follow the rules or stop selling new iPhones from 2024. 

The argument: Apple has long argued that the EU law stifles innovation and in the short term or the transition period it will result in more e-waste being generated. 

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  • There were also rumours that Apple may adopt wireless charging altogether in response to the EU mandate. 

Run-ins with law: EU is not the only region where Apple is facing troubles. Apple was recently fined $19 million in Brazil for not providing chargers with iPhones. 

  • Brazil called it "abusive" practice by Apple to exclude chargers, forcing customers to buy additional products.
Last updated: October 27, 2022 | 14:40
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