BIS publishes standards for USB Type-C charging port for mobiles and tablets

As the government plans to introduce two common types of charging ports for mobiles and portable electronic devices, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has released quality standards for USB Type-C charging port, according to a senior official of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

In the interests of consumers and to reduce e-waste, the Department of Consumer Affairs, in consultation with industry stakeholders, is considering mandating two types of common charging ports – a USB Type-C mobile charger , smartphones and tablets, and the other common charger for portable electronic devices.

“At the last meeting, there was broad consensus among stakeholders on adopting USB Type-C as the charging port for smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc. Singh told PTI.

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur is investigating a single charging port for wearable electronics like watches etc. Once the report is submitted, the same will be discussed with the industry, he said.

Asked about the mandatory deployment of two types of common charging ports in India, the Secretary said: “We need to align with the European Union (EU) timetable i.e. 2024 as manufacturers of mobile phones and electronics have a global supply chain and they do not supply India alone.The November 16 meeting had also decided to form a sub-group to examine the feasibility of a port Uniform Charging for Portable Devices The sub-group will include representatives from industry organizations and educational institutions.

It was also felt that an impact assessment could be conducted by the Union Department of Environment to assess and examine the possible impact of uniform charging port in electronic devices with regard to electronic waste.

Stakeholders agreed that a phased rollout of the common charging port could be done so that it can be applied by industry and adopted by consumers in a seamless manner.

Charging port uniformity is a step towards the LiFE (Lifestyle for the Environment) mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP-26 which calls for “conscious and deliberate use” by people around the world whole instead of “conscious and wasteful consumption”.

The LiFE mission plans to create and nurture a global network of individuals, namely the “Pro-Planet People” (P3), who will have a common commitment to adopt and promote environmentally friendly lifestyles.

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