EU Parliament votes for a universal charging cable from 2024

The European Parlament has voted for an EU-wide universal charging cable, including Apple devices. Smartphones and tablets will have to make the change from 2024, while laptop makers will change their cables from 2026. 602 votes were in favour, 13 against and 8 abstaining. All EU members still have to sign an agreement on the 24th of October.

The UK, former member of the EU said that the country will not introduce a universal cable anytime soon.

EU commissioner for competition Margrethe Vestager celebrated the decision on social media.

The new law includes following devices:

■mobile phones

■ tablets

■ mice and keyboards

■ Global Positioning System (GPS) devices

■ digital cameras

■ e-readers

■ headphones, headsets, earphones

■ handheld videogame consoles

■ portable speakers