After the European Commission held a public consultation on whether they should adopt what they call a “fair share” proposal, they unfortunately voted to move forward with this dangerous plan. This proposal is nothing but a network usage fees regime, which would force certain companies to pay internet service providers (ISPs) for their ability to deliver content to consumers. This idea not only hurts consumers, but also breaks a status quo that facilitated and continues to facilitate the rapid spread of the global internet.
The “bit at the end” definitely is an issue though. Thats where the interconnectedness between devices can happen. If you have to have the same end on one side, but a different on the other, its the same as having completely different ones. The problem being solved, is that now ALL cables will be used for ALL devices, not just charging blocks.
It was never about connecting between device though? I’m also not sure needing a cable for an Android with micro USB / USB-C and one for lightening is the dramatic issue some have made it out to be. Also I and many have loads of USB A chargers. Do they suddenly become waste? Or do I buy more cables and keep using them? Either way we have waste.
Thats not what I meant by interconnectedness, my mistake. What I meant is: having the same connectors on different devices. The issue solved is that nothing then has to become waste. If Apple decides to use a slightly different connector, and make their old one obsolete, then yes, it becomes waste. Of course technology evolves, but the usb-c standardisation is not meant to say “nobody can ever innovate”, it just means that as long as it is in effect, predatory companies can no longer wall off themselves through non-sustainable, greedy business practices.