The European Union executive and EU lawmakers have been
pushing for a common charger for over a decade, saying it would be better for
the environment and more convenient for users.
The Commission wants the sale of chargers to be decoupled
from devices, and also propose a harmonised charging port, the person said.
Apple, whose iPhone handsets are charged from its Lightning
cable, has said rules forcing connectors to conform to one type could deter
innovation, create a mountain of electronic waste, and irk consumers.
Rival Android-based devices are charged using USB-C
connectors. Half the chargers sold with mobile phones in 2018 had a USB micro-B
connector, while 29 percent had a USB-C connector and 21 percent a Lightning
connector, according to a 2019 Commission study. - Reuters