New Delhi [India], India, is set to enforce a new regulation requiring USB-C connectors on all smartphones and laptops by 2026, aligning with global efforts to standardize charging solutions and reduce e-waste.
According to a report obtained by GAM Arena, smartphone manufacturers must comply with the USB-C standard by June 2025, while laptops must adopt USB-C ports for charging by the end of 2026.
The decision by Indian policymakers follows similar measures introduced by the European Union, which recently implemented regulations mandating USB-C connectivity starting this year.
According to GSM Arena, the move aims to simplify the user experience by ensuring that all compatible devices use a universal charging cable, thus reducing the proliferation of proprietary chargers and cables.
This transition is expected to cover a wide range of devices beyond smartphones, including tablets, Windows laptops, and MacBooks, fostering interoperability between different platforms.
Notably, the mandate does not extend to smaller accessories such as fitness bracelets, smartwatches, headphones or feature phones, emphasizing the focus on larger electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops, according to GAM Arena.
While India's Union IT Ministry is yet to issue an official statement, reports indicate that discussions have already taken place with industry leaders, receiving favorable responses towards the upcoming regulation.
The introduction of USB-C in smartphones and laptops in India is expected to streamline production processes for manufacturers, potentially reducing costs associated with producing multiple types of chargers and cables, according to GSM Arena.
It also aims to positively contribute to environmental sustainability efforts by minimizing electronic waste generated by outdated charging technologies.
As the regulation moves towards implementation, both tech industry stakeholders and consumers are expected to adapt to the standardized USB-C requirement, which promises a smoother and greener future for electronic devices in India.
According to a report obtained by GAM Arena, smartphone manufacturers must comply with the USB-C standard by June 2025, while laptops must adopt USB-C ports for charging by the end of 2026.
The decision by Indian policymakers follows similar measures introduced by the European Union, which recently implemented regulations mandating USB-C connectivity starting this year.
According to GSM Arena, the move aims to simplify the user experience by ensuring that all compatible devices use a universal charging cable, thus reducing the proliferation of proprietary chargers and cables.
This transition is expected to cover a wide range of devices beyond smartphones, including tablets, Windows laptops, and MacBooks, fostering interoperability between different platforms.
Notably, the mandate does not extend to smaller accessories such as fitness bracelets, smartwatches, headphones or feature phones, emphasizing the focus on larger electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops, according to GAM Arena.
While India's Union IT Ministry is yet to issue an official statement, reports indicate that discussions have already taken place with industry leaders, receiving favorable responses towards the upcoming regulation.
The introduction of USB-C in smartphones and laptops in India is expected to streamline production processes for manufacturers, potentially reducing costs associated with producing multiple types of chargers and cables, according to GSM Arena.
It also aims to positively contribute to environmental sustainability efforts by minimizing electronic waste generated by outdated charging technologies.
As the regulation moves towards implementation, both tech industry stakeholders and consumers are expected to adapt to the standardized USB-C requirement, which promises a smoother and greener future for electronic devices in India.
