In November 2022, the RED was extended by Directive (EU) 2022/2380 to include the USB-C obligation for certain mobile radio devices with a charging interface. This directive is also known as the "common charger" directive. It is intended to ensure that each of the devices concerned can be charged at least via the standardized USB-C interface and that, as a rule, no charger is supplied. Since the directive was passed, the EU Commission has repeatedly reported on its success in the media. The end of the first transitional period is now in sight.
From December 28, 2024, the following products may only be placed on the market in the EU if they are equipped with a rechargeable battery and radio functions if they comply with the amended RED Directive:
- portable cell phones,
- portable navigation systems,
- digital cameras,
- tablets, e-readers,
- headphones, headsets, earphones, portable speakers,
- portable video game consoles,
- keyboards, mice.
For laptops, there is a transitional period until April 28, 2026.
Regulation (EU) 2023/1717 amended the version of the standard for the plug and, in particular, for the protocol to EN IEC 62680-1-3:2022. The special feature here is that the dated reference to the standard has been included in the text of the directive.
We have already reported on the labeling requirements, transition periods and standards in previous newsletters.
Questions about implementation are already piling up. So here are two important points:
- It is precisely stipulated that a USB-C socket is required on the end device in accordance with EN IEC 62680-1-3:2022.
- It is mandatory that a version without a power supply/charger must be offered. The manufacturer therefore only has the option of also offering a version with an enclosed USB-C charger.
The latter makes sense because electronic waste should be avoided and users already have enough power adapters/chargers in the household.
The link below leads to further information from the EU Commission, including a FAQ document.
For further support and questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Author
Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Torsten Sahm
Senior Product Compliance Consultant
