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WITH MORE THAN SIX BILLION DEVICES NOW USING THE USB SYSTEM WORLDWIDE, SWITCH ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS MD PAUL NOONAN OUTLINES THE EVOLUTION OF USB CHARGERS… The journey of USB charging USB A+A: EARLY
THE GAME CHANGER - EU LEGISLATION ON UNIVERSAL CHARGING In 2022, the European Union passed legislation mandating USB-C as the universal standard for cell phones, tablets and other small electronics sold in the EU by 2024. This has driven global adoption even outside Europe as manufacturers standardise production globally. Where is this leading? In short, we are heading toward a world where three-pin plug sockets are no longer necessary for charging personal electronics. The shift is already visible in: • Airports, where high-wattage USB-C is being rolled out in lounges and terminals • Universities and libraries, providing fast charging at every table or seat without trailing cords • Modern offices, where desks, meeting tables, soft seating, breakout areas and training rooms are being fitted with modular, scalable USB-C charging for both phones and laptops • Hotels, trains and public venues, ensuring seamless charging without adapters or power bricks WHAT ABOUT USB-D? WILL THE EVOLUTION CONTINUE? As of 2025, there is no formal public specification or roadmap for a USB-D standard. Industry bodies, including the USB Implementers Forum (USB- IF), are focused on enhancing USB-C performance rather than introducing a new connector form. Given current trajectories, USB-C is likely to dominate the market for at least another 5-10 years with incremental improvements, rather than complete overhauls. Market saturation and regulatory alignment most likely discourage introducing a new physical connector any time soon. OE Electrics products now include USB-C charging capabilities across their
CONVENIENCE, LIMITED POWER In the early 201Os, USB-A charging began to appear in public spaces and furniture, providing a simple and universal method to power cell phones and small devices. These early solutions typically delivered 5W-1 OW of power, sufficient for phones at the time, but inadequate for laptops, tablets and power-hungry accessories. Why change happened: • Consumers needed on-the-go power • Limitation - power output was too low for anything USB A+C: THE TRANSITION PHASE With the rise of newer smartphones, tablets and portable devices using USB-C cables, a transitional port setup emerged: USB-A + USB-C. This setup maintained backward compatibility while introducing faster charging (up to 18-25W) via USB-C. What happened? • Device manufacturers began shipping phones with USB-C ports. Power module manufacturers adapted to support both legacy and modern users Benefit • Mid-level fast-charging for newer phones, with legacy USB-A support for existing users
USB C+C: THE MODERN CHARGING STANDARD As USB-C adoption became near
range of on-desk, below-desk and in- desk power solutions, giving you even more flexibility and functionality in your workspace. At Switch, we pride ourselves on offering a 360° service, from initial project consultation, product evaluation and selection, all the way through to final order placement. Whether you’re designing a new office or upgrading existing setups, our expert team is here to help you choose the perfect power solution.
universal across Android devices and newer Apple products, the next logical step was a dual USB-C port configuration, offering 30W fast charging suitable for nearly all phones, tablets and accessory devices. Why it happened? • The market demanded faster, universal and more sustainable charging solutions Benefit • 3-pin plug usage is rapidly declining in most devices, replaced by modular, USB-C based solutions
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