Saudi Arabia is embarking on a transformative path towards enhancing the compatibility and efficiency of charging solutions for mobile phones and electronic devices nationwide, beginning in 2025.
The phased implementation strategy charts a comprehensive two-way course to ensure a seamless transition. From January 1, 2025, this changeover will impact all manner of devices, from smartphones, tablets and digital cameras to e-readers, portable gaming consoles and headphones, to name just a few. In addition, this inaugural phase will include essential companion devices such as portable navigation systems, speakers and wireless routers.
And finally, by April 1, 2026, this standardization mandate will extend to the charging ports of laptops as well.
The forthcoming transition, orchestrated collaboratively by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization and the Communications, Space and Technology Commission, heralds a new era of streamlined connectivity.
The universally acclaimed and utilized USB Type-C connector has emerged as the singular standardized global connectivity portal and is poised to replace a multitude of charging interfaces slowly being phased out in its favor.
The initiative notably seeks a tangible reduction of electronic waste, particularly the annual disposal of chargers and cables for mobile devices, currently totaling over 2.2 million units. This reduction will lead to a significant alleviation of environmental burdens and translate to an aggregate savings of more than SR 170 million for consumers within the Kingdom.
Over time, companies and suppliers will adjust their product lines to dutifully reflect the new standards and regulations.