The Directive (EU) 2022/2380 and the subsequent Commission Communication introduce important new rules regarding battery charging devices.

On 23 November 2022, the European Parliament and the Council approved Directive (EU) 2022/2380, which amends Directive 2014/53/EU relating the making available on the market of radio equipment. This new directive introduces essential requirements for certain categories of radio equipment, aimed at limiting the fragmentation of charging interfaces for mobile phones and similar devices. In this context, the Commission Notice – Guidance for the interpretation of the Common Charger Directive becomes a key tool to ensure a uniform understanding of the new provisions.

THE COMMISSION NOTICE

Indeed, the Commission’s guidance document aims to clarify the new procedures introduced by the directive on the standardized charger, facilitating its application. It is addressed to a wide audience, including market surveillance authorities, industry and consumer associations, manufacturers, importers, distributors, and conformity assessment bodies.

ENTRY INTO FORCE AND SCOPE OF APPLICATION

The directive on the common charger came into force on 28 December 2022, and its provisions will be applied from 28 December 2024, until 28 April 2026, depending on the category or class of equipment. Key points include:

1. Scope of application: new rules apply to a wide range of devices, including mobile phones, tablets, cameras, headphones and earbuds, videogame consoles, e-readers, portable speakers, keyboards and mice, portable navigation systems, etc.
2. Harmonized charging receptacle and requirements: radio equipment must be equipped with a harmonized charging receptacle, specifically a USB-C receptacle, to reduce the fragmentation of charging interfaces.
3. Unbundling the sale of the charging device from the sale of the electronic device.
4. Improved information for end-users/consumers.

THE ECM’SERVICES FOR RADIO EQUIPMENT

Therefore, this regulatory framework represents a significant step forward towards the harmonization of charging technologies for radio equipment in the European Union. Ente Certificazione Macchine – Notified Body 1282 for Directive 2014/53/EU (RED) – is available to verify compliance with the new regulatory requirements. As a Testing Laboratory, ECM can also perform tests and trials on radio equipment, issuing the relevant test report.