EU to require common way to charge phones

European Union officials agreed on Tuesday on new rules requiring a uniform charging cord for smartphones and other devices. The EU Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton said that any company wishing to benefit from the "biggest digital market in the free world" should abide by the new rules.

The new rules, which will take effect by fall 2024, mean EU consumers will only need to use a common USB Type-C cable for small and medium-sized rechargeable, portable electronic devices.Apple has previously expressed concerns that the rules would limit innovation and hurt consumers.The move was part of a wider effort to make electronic products sold in the 27-nation bloc more sustainable and cut down on electronic waste.