What’s Changing in the European Union? On December 28, 2024, the EU began to require all portable electronics to use USB-C charging ports and shared charging standards. By April 26, 2026, this rule will also apply to laptops. This shift in policy aims to reduce 11 tonnes of e-waste created by unnecessary charging accessories. Ahead of the 2026 deadline, some brands, like Apple and Microsoft, have already made the change. The MacBook M5 and Microsoft Surface Pro now ship in the EU without a power adapter. It simplifies device manufacturers’ production and aligns sustainability goals, but it also shifts the responsibility for choosing a charger to the customer. What It Means for IT Teams and End Users These changes can impact businesses and IT asset managers in multiple ways: No chargers included: This is the simplest issue devices will no longer come with a way to stay charged and adapters will need to be purchased. Compatibility confusion: Not every USB-C charger works the same, and devices have different demands. Even though the connection is standardized, the power delivery isn’t. Procurement impact: IT Pros are going to need to plan ahead for device refreshes and infrastructure deployments to make sure their end-users have the power and connectivity they need. For companies running a mix of MacBooks, Chromebooks, Windows devices, and power-intensive AI PCs, this can quickly become a logistics nightmare. How we make solving your power delivery challenges easy Our team has followed the growing power delivery trend and its impact on IT Pros and identified strategies and accessories that can quickly solve the challenges created by the EU’s decision. Charging made easy Single-port adapters up to 140W: For asset managers looking for the simplest solution, our single-port adapters are rigorously tested and are designed with GaN technology to ensure peak power delivery with end-user and device safety in mind. Multiport power adapters: In some environments users need to keep more than one device charged. Our multiport adapters deliver the same power and performance but across multiple devices. Enterprise power adapters: This award-winning option is perfect for open and hotel seating office concepts. Our 240W 4-port adapter delivers power for even the most intense devices and can support 4 employees’ needs. The screw-lock cables also ensure your high-performance cables stay where they’re needed. Docking stations: Docking stations don’t just expand user's devices into full workstations, many also deliver critical power as part of their single cable solution. USB-C and Thunderbolt docking stations are available with up to 140W power delivery. Why trust StarTech.com for your power delivery? With our accessories you can always trust that you have: Proven performance – from our 40-year history as the IT Pros’ choice for keeping connected. Verified compatibility — every product is tested in our in-house lab to meet USB-C and power delivery standards. Sustainable packaging and materials — aligned with EU environmental goals. Fast, local distribution — stocked from across our EU network for quick delivery. Ready for What’s Next The move towards USB-C standardization is a good thing, but it requires planning. We’re here to help IT pros, procurement teams, and business users stay one step ahead with tested, compatible, and sustainable power solutions that work across all devices in their environment. Want to learn more about standardizing with StarTech.com? Connect with our team and we’ll help you get started.