In setback for Apple, EU agrees on common charging port deal

Phones and tablet makers will have to comply with new rules by September 2024

All smartphones and tablets would have to use a common charger under a provisional European Union agreement clinched on Tuesday. 

The plan would force all companies — most notably Apple — to make phones, tablets, e-readers and digital cameras use the USB-C charger, negotiators announced. Around 15 product types are included in the scope, including headsets, video-game consoles and headphones.

The plan, unveiled last year, was provisionally approved Tuesday and will save consumers an estimated ^250 million ($267 million) each year according to the European Commission. The European Parliament and 27 EU countries need to sign off on the agreement. 

Phones and tablet