According to India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), a common charger for mobile phones by migrating to only USB type C port will raise the prices for low-end devices by Rs 150 and restrict the export potential of adapters from India. The industry body said that mobile phone players have already reduced the charging ports to only two types of charging points – micro USB and USB type C.
In a presentation to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, ICEA informed that there are still 9-10 types of charging ports in laptop chargers that need to be reduced in sync with global standards to around two. Moreover, there is a difference of around Rs 150 per unit between the price of micro USB and USB type C charger. Over 90 per cent of smartphones are on micro USB and USB type C, and less than 2 per cent at micro type B, lightning chargers etc.
Additionally, ICEA warned that limiting the mobile phone charger to only one type of charging port will adversely impact the export potential of the country.
ICEA said that there is a need to evaluate any policy in light of environmental concerns, the consistent push towards innovation, and India’s aspirations of being the leading manufacturer and exporter of chargers in the world.
