India is set to mandate USB-C ports for all smartphones and tablets sold in the country starting June 2025, Mint reported. This move, inspired by similar regulations in the European Union (EU), that pushed Apple to adopt a USB-C charging port in iPhones, aims to streamline charging solutions, enhance consumer convenience, and promote environmental sustainability. If this comes true, then this move is a significant step towards reducing electronic waste.
According to the report, the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is preparing to issue a directive that will require device manufacturers to adopt USB-C as the standard charging port for smartphones and tablets. This decision is said to follow extensive discussions with industry stakeholders and mirrors the EU’s 2022 regulation, which mandates USB-C ports across a wide range of devices including smartphones, tablets, cameras, and more.
How it will benefit you?
By standardising charging ports, you will be able to charge multiple devices with a single cable, significantly reducing the need for various types of chargers. Not just that, the USB-C connector is not only reversible, making it easier to use, but also supports faster data transfer and charging speeds compared to older port types. This means fewer cables and chargers, leading to reduced clutter and potential cost savings.
While from the point of view of manufacturers, the standardisation of charging ports can streamline production processes and simplify supply chains. With a single charging standard, manufacturers can potentially lower production costs.
Moreover, the core idea behind this initiative is the reduction of electronic waste (e-waste). The proliferation of different types of chargers has led to a significant accumulation of e-waste, posing environmental challenges. By adopting a universal charging solution, fewer chargers will be discarded.
When Will It be implemented?
The regulation is set to take effect in June 2025, giving manufacturers an additional six months to ensure compliance compared to the EU's timeline, the report added. While this mandate initially targets smartphones and tablets, it is expected to extend to laptops by 2026. However, basic feature phones and wearable devices such as smartwatches are currently exempt from this requirement, though manufacturers have the option to voluntarily adopt USB-C ports for these products as well.