Apple iPhone may require redesign as European Union insists on distribution of charger

Apple Inc. may have to redesign its iPhones to use USB-C charging ports under draft European Union rules aimed at reducing waste and making life easier for consumers who own multiple devices.

The European Commission said on Thursday it wants a single type of charging port for all smartphones and tablets, as well as equipment such as cameras, some headphones, portable speakers and portable video consoles.

"With the advent of more and more devices, more and more chargers are being sold that are not interchangeable or unnecessary," Thierry Breton, EU industry head, said in an emailed statement. "We will put an end to this."

Apple opposes the standard connector, saying it could harm innovation that could bring more energy-efficient products to market. The bill has increased pressure from the EU in recent years as antitrust scrutiny of its app shop and payment system exacerbates a legal dispute over a huge tax non-payment order.

According to an emailed statement, Apple is "concerned that strict regulation, with only one type of connector, is stifling innovation rather than encouraging it". The Cupertino, California-based company said it "cares deeply about customer experience" and shares the commission's "commitment to protecting the environment".

The iPhone maker began removing adapters from packaging last year to reduce waste. Although the company uses USB-C for some devices, it has its own Lightning cable, magnetic iPhone chargers and some accessories.

"Not aimed at Apple."

Breton told reporters in Brussels that Apple is "not necessarily worried" about the draft regulations. He said he was in regular contact with Apple CEO Tim Cook, who never mentioned the issue.

"It is not aimed at Apple or anyone else," he said at the press conference. "We are thinking about the coming 15-20 years. Apple is already using USB-C in other devices 'and' I don't think it will cause anyone any problems."

The EU says people spend about €2.4 billion ($2.8 billion) annually on standalone chargers. It predicts savings of €250 million each year as consumers avoid buying new chargers. It says people tend to have up to three chargers each and find incompatible chargers annoying.

According to the rules, all chargers must provide the same charging speed. Phone manufacturers can still sell phones with a charger if they also offer models without one. They can also sell devices with a cable in the box and without an outlet. The devices could potentially have more than one port if one of them is USB-C.

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According to the commission, the EU throws away around 11,000 tonnes of chargers each year, some of which are unused. The proposal is expected to reduce that number by almost 1,000 tonnes.

The rules could come into force in two years after they are agreed by EU lawmakers and governments, who could amend the draft text.

The EU proposal does not address wireless charging. Regulators said they decided not to include headphones, smart watches and fitness trackers because of their smaller size.