Europe wants a single charger to work for all devices

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(CNN Business) – Europe You want a charger that is universal and works on all devices.

This Thursday, the European Parliament overwhelmingly approved a resolution that asks the executive branch of the block to “urgently” oblige technology companies to use a single type of loader.

Lawmakers ask for a common charger that can be used on different brands and types of devices, including mobile phones, tablets and e-book readers.

The resolution also urges European Union lawmakers to explore ways to increase the number of cables and chargers that are recycled, as well as to ensure that customers are not required to buy a charger with each new device they purchase.

Previously, Apple has fiercely opposed similar proposals: its Lightning cables are not compatible with devices manufactured by rival hardware companies. Other brands tend to use USB variants for chargers.

Although an Apple spokesman did not have an immediate statement to the resolution passed on Thursday, the tech giant said in a statement last week that switching to a single charger would stifle innovation and generate environmental waste.

“The 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,” the statement said.

The European Commission has been considering possible solutions for a decade. In 2009, smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, signed a memorandum of understanding not binding agreeing to unify the chargers.

Although Apple has been moving towards the use of USB-C chargers in some products, the company remains a separate case.

The resolution passed on Thursday asks the commission to present “reinforced” rules for July. According to the commission’s work agenda for 2020, legislative action on a common shipper is planned for the third quarter.

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