A new USB-C 4.0 standard cable is almost ready for the market
ECOS supports a new standard for USB-C cables, expected to make it easier to use a single charger across different devices, thus helping consumers reduce electronic waste.
ECOS submitted a favourable opinion on the final draft standard IEC 62680-1-3 specifying the USB-C 4.0 cable and connector. The standard comprises specifications for USB Type-C receptacles, plugs and cables. It is expected to help counter the multiplication of different charging solutions, improve consumer convenience, and limit wasteful overconsumption.
While generally supportive of this standard, ECOS highlighted a few elements which should be addressed in its future revision. We called for:
- developing a singular non-proprietary fast charge feature. It would be a solution to the issue of backward compatibility to better avoid potential unsafe connections or loss of functionality with legacy cables;
- a revision of the USB logos to introduce intuitive physical label on plugs and cables so to reduce the risk of consumer confusion between new and old versions of USB-C chargers.
The new standard is expected to be published in August 2021.
