The government of India is set to follow in the footsteps of the EU and start mandating USB-C as the standard charging port for smartphones and tablets beginning in June 2025. Once the policy goes into effect, all new smartphones and tablets sold in India must have USB-C charging ports.
While the Indian government has been saying that it would impose similar legislation, ever since the EU passed its law, India has postponed implementing its mandate. Initially, India was supposed to implement this by March 2025.
In comparison, the EU’s regulation will be in effect by the end of 2024. It aims to enhance consumer convenience and implement USB-C ports for these devices to reduce electronic waste by eliminating the need for multiple chargers. Apple, for instance, has complied with this mandate by switching from its proprietary Lightning port to USB-C for its iPhone 15 lineup.
The EU’s regulation aims to enhance consumer convenience and reduce electronic waste by eliminating the need for multiple types of chargers. Apple, for instance, has complied with this mandate by switching from its proprietary Lightning port to USB-C for its iPhone 15 lineup.
When the EU passed the legislation, India had new regulations aimed at simplifying charging solutions, reducing electronic waste, and aligning with global standards. The rule, set to extend to laptops in 2026, excludes basic phones and wearables for now, according to a report by Mint.
Implementation and compliance
The Union IT ministry will soon issue instructions to device manufacturers mandating the adoption of USB-C ports for smartphones and tablets. Basic phones, headphones, and smartwatches are currently exempt from this requirement, though manufacturers may choose to implement USB-C ports for these devices as well.
The regulation grants manufacturers in India an additional six months to comply compared to similar rules in the European Union, providing more time to transition to the new standard.
How does this benefit consumers and manufacturers?
USB-C ports offer significant advantages due to their versatility and convenience. They are reversible, making them easier to use, and support faster data transfer and charging speeds compared to older port types.
This means fewer chargers and cables for consumers, leading to cost savings and reduced clutter. Standardizing charging ports can streamline manufacturing processes and supply chains, potentially lowering costs and improving efficiency.
Tackling e-waste
One of the primary goals of this initiative is to reduce electronic waste. With a universal charging solution, fewer chargers will be discarded, contributing to environmental conservation efforts. This move aligns with global trends toward sustainability and reducing the ecological footprint of electronic devices.
As India implements this regulation, the broader tech industry is likely to move towards greater compatibility and sustainability. Standardizing charging ports could lead to seamless interoperability between devices from different manufacturers, fostering a more user-friendly and environmentally responsible ecosystem.
