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USB-C
E-waste European Union Technology Universal Charger USB-C

EU Officially Announce USB-C as Global Charging Standard

 

For tech enthusiasts and environmentalists in the European Union (EU), December 28, 2024, marked a major turning point as USB-C officially became the required standard for electronic gadgets.

The new policy mandates that phones, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices marketed in the EU must have USB-C connectors. This move aims to minimise e-waste and make charging more convenient for customers. Even industry giants like Apple are required to adapt, signaling the end of proprietary charging standards in the region.

Apple’s Transition to USB-C

Apple has been slower than most Android manufacturers in adopting USB-C. The company introduced USB-C connectors with the iPhone 15 series in 2023, while older models, such as the iPhone 14 and the iPhone SE (3rd generation), continued to use the now-outdated Lightning connector.

To comply with the new EU regulations, Apple has discontinued the iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in the region, as these models include Lightning ports. While they remain available through third-party retailers until supplies run out, the regulation prohibits brands from directly selling non-USB-C devices in the EU. However, outside the EU, including in major markets like the United States, India, and China, these models are still available for purchase.

Looking Ahead: USB-C as the Future

Apple’s decision aligns with its broader strategy to phase out the Lightning connection entirely. The transition is expected to culminate in early 2025 with the release of a USB-C-equipped iPhone SE. This shift not only ensures compliance with EU regulations but also addresses consumer demands for a more streamlined charging experience.

The European Commission (EC) celebrated the implementation of this law with a playful yet impactful tweet, highlighting the benefits of a universal charging standard. “Today’s the day! USB-C is officially the common standard for electronic devices in the EU! It means: The same charger for all new phones, tablets & cameras; Harmonised fast-charging; Reduced e-waste; No more ‘Sorry, I don’t have that cable,’” the EC shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Environmental and Consumer Benefits

This law aims to alleviate the frustration of managing multiple chargers while addressing the growing environmental issues posed by e-waste. By standardising charging technology, the EU hopes to:

  • Simplify consumer choices
  • Extend the lifespan of accessories like cables and adapters
  • Reduce the volume of electronic waste

With the EU leading this shift, other regions may follow suit, further promoting sustainability and convenience in the tech industry.

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USB-C
Apple Charging Cables Cyber Attacks iPhones OMG cables USB-C

Beware of Malicious USB-C Cables: Hidden Cyber Threats

 


In today's tech-driven world, charging cables are indispensable. However, recent findings about compromised USB-C cables have highlighted significant risks associated with third-party accessories. Security experts warn that hackers can embed tiny computers within ordinary-looking cables, transforming them into tools for cyberattacks.

What Makes These Cables Dangerous?

Hackers have developed methods to integrate small electronic components, such as Wi-Fi antennas and microchips, into USB-C cables. These cables appear and function like regular charging cables, allowing users to charge their devices or transfer data. However, behind the scenes, they can connect to the internet, monitor user activity, and even gain control of connected devices.

Security researcher Mike Grover, creator of the O.MG cable used in ethical hacking demonstrations, explains the risks: "A compromised cable could host keylogging software to capture everything typed on a device, deploy malware, or extract sensitive data—all without the user's knowledge. It looks just like a real cable."

The Role of CT Scans in Exposing Threats

Specialized CT scanning has shed light on the internal components of malicious USB-C cables. Lumafield, a company specializing in CT scans, recently analyzed one such cable. The high-quality scans revealed stacks of chips and an embedded Wi-Fi antenna hidden inside the cable. Despite these modifications, the cable's appearance and size remain unchanged, making it nearly impossible to identify visually.

How to Stay Safe

To protect against these threats, experts recommend the following precautions:

  • Use authentic accessories: Always purchase cables and chargers directly from the original manufacturers. For example, iPhone users should stick to Apple-approved cables, while Android and laptop users should do the same for their respective brands.
  • Avoid public charging stations: Refrain from using cables or ports found in public places like airports or coffee shops, as these could have been tampered with.
  • Invest in a battery pack: Carrying a personal battery pack reduces the need to use public charging points, minimizing the risk of exposure.

While not every cable or charging port is compromised, it's nearly impossible to identify malicious ones without advanced tools. By remaining vigilant and using trusted accessories, you can protect your devices and data from these sophisticated cyber threats.

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USB-C
Apple Apple Charging Cables. Gadgets iPhone 11 Lightning port USB-C

Apple’s Lightning Port to be Switched by Android-Style USB-C type on the New iPhone 11?






It’s in the air that there’s a strong chance of Apple abandoning its Lightning port for a USB-C type charging port with its next iPhone.

As quite strongly established the “Lightning” had been a key feature since 2012 and if Apple follows through, the old cables would become superfluous.

A “Screengrab” of the new recovery mode screen in iOS 13 (the next version of Apple’s iPhone software) kind of confirms the deal.

Apple has already undertaken the USB-C cables for its iPad Pro. The change if executed on the phones will lead to all the current chargers going down the drain lest to be used for the new phones.



The iPhone 13 download isn’t absolutely out in the open yet but, it will be officially released in September along with the fresh and new iPhone 11. Fans can obviously access a beta version of it via the Apple websites.

Along with the change in cables, reportedly, the common iTunes icon will also no longer be there and could be replaced by an icon of a “laptop”.

In the older versions of the OS, the cable would point to the iTunes logo during a restore from the computer. But now, it shows a generic silhouette of a laptop.

Also, iTunes could now be split into Music, Podcasts and Books.



The USB-C type is a standard connector for several Android phones and laptops and is inherently being use by Samsung , OnePlus and Google Pixel in some of their phones.

Original Apple chargers sell for around $25 and the copies are available for quite a low amount. But, for quite some time now USB-C has made quite a fan base.

These C type cables allow the devices to charge way faster than any other older type of cable could as it allowed only a limited amount of power in.

After iPad Pro being released with the C-type port Apple enthusiasts had been hoping for a similar change and feature availability in the new iPhones.


Apple has come a long way since it ditched the 30-pin connector in 2012 and embraced the “Lightning” port.

But should the port be changed the older adapters and chargers would all be rendered redundant. The users sure have raised a few complaints before the Apple Launch event.

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