The European Commission has provided guidance to assist businesses in complying with the upcoming Common Charger Directive, which is set to take effect later this year.
This Directive, which was endorsed by the EU Council in October 2022, represents an update to the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). The RED governs the distribution of radio equipment within the EU market and aims to improve consumer convenience while minimizing the environmental footprint linked to the manufacture and disposal of chargers. The implementation of this Directive will necessitate that all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold within the EU be furnished with a USB Type-C charging port.
In May, the EU issued guidance detailing the regulations concerning standardized charging ports, uniform charging technology, and the decoupling of chargers from the sale of electronic devices. Additionally, it elaborates on product labeling through graphic pictograms to inform consumers whether their existing charger is compatible with their new device or to aid in selecting a suitable charger.
Starting December 28, the Common Charger Directive will be enforced for handheld mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, handheld video game consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, and earbuds sold within the EU. Laptops will be subject to this Directive as of April 28, 2026.