According to the Commissions statement, this proposal aims to reduce e-waste and minimize user inconvenience.
New electronic devices also would stop bundling chargers in the package by default.
I understand these intentions, and I think theyre worth aiming for.
AKA168 / Getty Images
Others can be charged either way, but charging via the company-branded adapter is faster.
Still, other laptops do rely on USB-C for charging, but only will work with proprietary USB-C chargers.
Not all devices are built the same way when it comes to charging.
ersinkisacik / Getty Images
The proposal would require more specific charging information from manufacturers and “unbundle” chargers from electronic sales.
Vadzim Sheleh / Getty Images
To be clear, the goal is a worthwhile one.
Cutting back on waste and avoiding unintended stockpiles of useless accessories is a good thing.
Vadzim Sheleh / Getty Images
My uncertainty stems from the approach.
It’s the unbundling of charging cables that has me raising an eyebrow in this case.
I do understand that buying electronics can lead to a stockpile of pack-in chargers.
But not including chargers with new electronics strikes me as the wrong move.
Buyers could mistakenly come home without a way to power up their brand new gadget.
Taking steps to reduce e-waste while also making thighs easier on consumers is a commendable goal.
However, I also think there are far more factors to consider before charging ahead with this.
Many little things could lead to some pretty big headaches if they aren’t accounted for early on.
