Apple halted sales of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation) in its online stores across the European Union today, as the region’s USB-C charging mandate went into full effect. The move comes as a result of the EU’s requirement that all new portable electronic devices sold within the bloc must use USB-C charging ports.

While the latest iPhone 15 and 16 models already feature USB-C, the older models relied on Apple’s proprietary Lightning port. This new regulation stipulates that any devices sold in the EU, even older models, must now include the universal connector, designed to handle both charging and data transfer.

The EU directive aims to reduce e-waste and market fragmentation by standardizing charging ports. While retailers can continue to sell existing stock of older iPhones, they will not be able to purchase any additional units with Lightning ports.

“Manufacturers, importers and distributors need to be given time to exercise any rights they have acquired under any pre-existing, national or EU rules, for example to sell their stocks of products manufactured in line with the pre-existing rules.”— European Commission

The new rules encompass a wide range of devices beyond smartphones, including tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, handheld videogame consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, and earbuds that use wired charging and operate with a power delivery of up to 100 watts.

While the 350W PlayStation 5 is excluded, the Nintendo Switch, which draws up to 6W, falls under the directive. Laptops are granted an exception, with compliance required by April 28, 2026. The directive does not currently cover wireless charging, but the EU is considering harmonizing standards in the future.

Beyond USB-C ports, the directive also regulates fast charging, requiring devices exceeding 5 volts, 3 amperes, or 15 watts to support USB Power Delivery (USB PD). This ensures devices can charge at their maximum speed using compatible chargers. Additionally, the mandate requires that devices be sold without bundled charging bricks, aiming to minimize unnecessary waste and to allow users to “purchase a new electronic device without a new charger”.

New pictograms will now appear on packaging to indicate whether or not a charging brick is included and to show the minimum and maximum power requirements of the device. These visual aids are designed to educate consumers on power needs and compatibility.

Enforcement of the directive falls to individual EU member states, which will perform market surveillance and have the power to issue fines or force the withdrawal of non-compliant equipment. This raises concerns about how regulators will manage the influx of cheaper technology from outside the bloc.

Despite the challenges, the EU's initiative is widely considered a positive move towards greater consumer convenience and reduced e-waste, accelerated by regulations. The long-term impact, however, will depend on how quickly manufacturers and retailers adapt to the changing landscape.

Apple isn't the only manufacturer affected. Companies like OnePlus and OPPO, who use proprietary charging standards without also supporting USB PD, will need to adjust their practices to remain competitive in the EU market. The directive seeks to ensure that fast charging devices are compatible with any USB PD charger, promoting standardization and interoperability.

Other regions are following the EU's example. California has mandated USB-C for all mobile phones and small electronic devices sold after January 1, 2026, and India will implement similar rules in June 2025. These global shifts indicate a growing trend towards universal charging standards and reduced electronic waste.