News & Reviews:   European Union

Previously, we reported on the European Union’s (EU) Digital Markets Act that would force Apple to introduce alternative app stores and sideloading on the iPhone. Well, it looks like Microsoft is keen on using the new EU law to offer its services on iOS devices as it was revealed that the company is planning to launch an Xbox Games Store on the iPhone.

Previously, we reported on European Union (EU) passing a law which makes USB-C mandatory for the charging of devices, a rule that even Apple said it has “no choice but to comply”.  Well, a similar law has also been passed in India and smartphone manufacturers have been told that they have a deadline of March 2025 to comply with the new requirement.

After standardizing the charging port for all devices, the European Union (EU) is now on to the next goal. According to the latest report, the body wants to bring smartphones with removable batteries back and also make them replaceable.

The days of having to turn on Airplane mode inside an aircraft may be over (well, at least in Europe) after the European Union is set to make it mandatory for airlines to equip their aircraft with 5G connectivity. Specifically, under a new EU plan, airlines are obliged to install a ‘pico-cell’ on their aircraft to amplify 5G coverage to passengers.

Previously, we reported on Apple confirming that it will comply with the European Union’s (EU) new law for a unified USB-C charging port. Now, it looks like the EU is not done just yet and may force Apple to do more changes on its mobile devices, including allowing for third-party app stores, app sideloading and iMessage interoperability with non-Apple devices.

Recently, the European Union (EU) passed a law which makes it mandatory for manufacturers to use USB-C port for the charging of their devices. Of course, this affects Apple the most as its iPhone lineup still uses Lightning and the tech giant has come out and said that it will comply with the new regulation.

Apple is reportedly planning to adopt USB Type-C more widely within its portfolio, including on the AirPods lineup as well as Mac accessories. This is according to reliable tipster on everything Apple, Mark Gurman.

The fight between the European Union and Apple on standardising the charging port as USB-C port has come to an end. According to the latest report, the law passes with 602 votes in favour, 13 against and 8 abstentions. It means that Apple would have to switch from the Lightning port to the USB-C port by 2024.

It is reported that India might soon follow the footsteps of Europe by imposing a new policy that requires all the electronic products sold in the country to switch to USB-C. The government has called a meeting for all industry stakeholders, which is getting held on 17 August.

If you haven't heard, the European Union (EU) is in an agreement that all compact gadgets should use a USB-C port. While the agreement is not fully in motion yet, that may force Apple to switch the iPhone and iPad devices from the trademark lightning port to USB-C in the future.