Today, we use the USB-C port to charge almost all our electronic devices, except for Apple products. Thankfully, this is changing with iPhone 15. As you may know, the European Union made it mandatory for Apple and all other companies to use USB-C.Now, following in the footsteps of the EU, Saudi Arabia has also made a decision in favor of USB-C standardization. This move is expected to be a welcome change for consumers in the country. Here are the details.
Saudi Arabia Chooses USB-C Charging for All Gadgets from 2025
Previously, the European Union aimed to introduce a common charging port requirement for phones and various other electronic products sold within Europe. This decision was motivated by a goal to reduce electronic waste. As a result, starting in 2024, electronic devices,including iPhones, sold in the EU will be required to have a USB-C port as standard.
Saudi Arabia has now adopted a similar stance. As of 2025, almost all electronic devices sold in the country will be mandated to utilize USB-C charging ports. A government spokesperson spoke about this development, emphasizing its potential to enhance user experience. Moreover, this move aims to cut down on costs and e-waste, while also ensuring high-quality data transfers.
While the European Union’s recent move focuses on charging ports, they are not stopping there. They’re turning their attention towards batteries as well. A draft proposal currently under consideration could completely revamp battery use and management in electronic products sold in Europe.
One of the key aspects of this draft is its emphasis on “replaceability”. The EU intends for batteries in products like smartphones and laptops to be easily removable and replaceable by users, without the need for any special tools. If special tools are required, they should be provided free of charge.
Furthermore, the new regulations will require all companies selling batteries in the EU market to adopt a policy that addresses social and environmental risks linked with the sourcing, processing, and trade of raw materials used in battery production. The directive will also mandate that batteries contain a certain percentage of recycled materials: 16% cobalt, 85% lead, 6% lithium, and 6% nickel. This is in line with the vision to make newer batteries more environmentally friendly than their predecessors.