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

The Product Safety and Standards Authority, part of the Department for Business and Trade, is seeking views from manufacturers, importers, distributors and trade associations on the potential benefits and challenges of introducing a common charging standard in 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 decision aimed to reduce e-waste and improve the compatibility of chargers.

The UK government, which has previously said it ignored such regulations, is now examining whether adopting USB-C as a standard would benefit businesses, consumers and the environment. The consultation will last eight weeks until 4 December 2024.

Key points covered include:

• USB-C standardization as common charging port
• Application of agreed fast charging technology
• Allow consumers to purchase devices without a charger
• Introduce requirements for labeling of charging-related information

The government acknowledges that many smartphone, tablet, camera, headphone and laptop manufacturers have already voluntarily adopted USB-C for the UK market to avoid complications in the supply chain. For example, after long resisting replacing its own Lightning port, Apple adopted USB-C for new iPhones last year; The last few Lightning products will likely be transitioned next year. But the government says it is keen to understand the consequences of formally implementing such requirements.

It is noteworthy that the new iPad mini announced on Tuesday will not include a charger in the box for many European countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. This change is likely a response to EU e-waste regulations, but applies even to some non-EU European countries.