The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has revealed proposals to require smartphone and other electronics companies to have a standard USB-C charging connector. The regulations aim to reduce electronic waste by allowing people to reuse old chargers and cords when purchasing new equipment.

The restrictions will apply to tablets, headphones, portable speakers, gaming consoles, and cameras, in addition to phones. Manufacturers will also be required to make their fast-charging standards interoperable, as well as educate users about the charging standards that their device supports. Customers will be able to purchase new gadgets without a charger as part of the idea.

In a press conference, EU commissioner Thierry Breton stated that the plans only apply to devices that use wired charges, not wireless chargers, and that “there is plenty of room for innovation on wireless.”

Apple is likely to be the most affected by the proposal. Instead of using the USB-C connector, which is used by most of their competitors, they continue to employ their own Lightning connector.