Brussels tries to ban Apple phone chargers

Rival Android-based devices are charged using USB-C connectors. Half the chargers sold with mobile phones in the EU in 2018 had a USB micro-B connector, while 29 per cent  had a USB-C connector and 21 per cent a Lightning connector, according to a 2019 Commission study.

Apple has said that rules forcing connectors to conform to a certain type will strangle innovation, create a mountain of electrical waste and annoy consumers.

The legislation is also expected to deter manufacturers from selling chargers with every new smartphone, in a bid to further cut waste. It is expected to call for customers to have the choice to continue using their old chargers.

It is estimated the law could cut e-waste by 980 tons a year.

The legislative proposal is the first step towards the requirement becoming EU law. Once it is proposed by the commission, the European Parliament and EU governments will debate their plans.