Last week, Apple hit the headlines after EUlawmakers suggested that tech companies should adopt a ‘common charger’ for all smartphones.
If the law goes through, it means that Applecould be forced to switch to a USB-C port charger for its iPhones – the standard method used in Android smartphones.
The EU explained: “To reduce electronic waste and make consumers’ life easier, MEPs want binding measures for chargers to fit all mobile phones and other portable devices.
“A common charger should fit all mobile phones, tablets, e-book readers and other portable devices. According to estimates, old chargers generate more than 51,000 tonnes of electronic waste per year.”
Now, Apple has revealed that it’s fighting back, putting forward a case against enforcing a common smartphone charger across Europe.
Apple said: “Apple stands for innovation and deeply cares about the customer experience. We believe regulation that forces conformity across the type of connector built into all smartphones stifles innovation rather than encouraging it, and would harm consumers in Europe and the economy as a whole.”
Apple’s iPhones have featured a Lightning connector since 2012, and since then more than one billion devices have shipped with this connector, alongside a huge range of Lightning accessories.
Apple explained: “Legislation would have a direct negative impact by disrupting the hundreds of millions of active devices and accessories used by our European customers and even more Apple customers worldwide, creating an unprecedented volume of electronic waste and greatly inconveniencing users.”
Source: mirror
