A NEW EU directive that requires all new mobile phone devices to use the same charger by 2024 is expected to apply in Northern Ireland under the terms of the protocol.
A deal struck by the EU Council, Commission and Parliament yesterday confirmed the EU will adopt USB-C for all phones, tablets, cameras, earbuds, game consoles and e-readers by autumn 2024.
Laptop manufacturers will be required to adapt the connection within 40 months.
The EU said it will mean consumers can use one single charger for all devices, cutting around 11,000 tonnes of annual waste.
The provisional agreement involves the amendment of the Radio Equipment Directive, which is part of the Northern Ireland Protocol.
USB-C is already the preferred connection for much of the electronics market, with Apple the standout exception.
The iPhone maker has used its own ‘lightning’ connector since 2012.
Apple said it had no new comment in response to Tuesday's developments, but last year it argued that the mandatory connector would 'stifle innovation'.
Rather than maintain two different types of connections, the tech giant is expected to formally adopt USB-C.
Most new iPads and Mac computers already include USB-C ports, while a report by Bloomberg last month revealed Apple is testing future iPhones with USB-C connections.
The news outlet also reported Apple is working on an adapter that would let future iPhones work with accessories designed for the current lightning connector.
The European Commission said the new rules will mean buyers can choose whether or not they want to purchase a charger with a new device.
It will also harmonise charging speeds for devices that support fast charging.
Malta MEP Alex Agius Saliba, who presented the report to the European Parliament on Tuesday, said: “European consumers were frustrated long with multiple chargers piling up with every new device. Now they will be able to use a single charger for all their portable electronics.
“We are proud that laptops, e-readers, earbuds, keyboards, computer mice, and portable navigation devices are also included in addition to smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones and headsets, handheld videogame consoles and portable speakers.
“We have also added provisions on wireless charging being the next evolution in the charging technology and improved information and labelling for consumers.”
