Consumer electronics are popular products. The 2000s and 2010s saw many exciting advancements: smaller devices, better interfaces, and reliable wireless transmission. As functionality increased, however, so did the need for innovative and sophisticated battery charging systems. This point has remained at the forefront for consumers, manufacturers, and policymakers: how do we solve the power problem?
Consider this: regardless of functionality, we must charge an electronic device before using it. Traditionally, this requires a power cord and supply. Devices charged at different speeds or voltage levels each require a separate solution. On the other hand, devices with similar protocols could use the same cords. This simple truth has helped spearhead massive reforms in European ecodesign for decades.