- Tuesday, 24 November 2009
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I quote others in order to better express my own self - Montaigne
Universal mobile charger standard approved
THE INTERNATIONAL Telecommunications Union (ITU) has approved a standard for energy-efficient, one-size-fits-all mobile phone chargers.
The ITU approved the standard last weekend, explaining that a device built to the specification could be used as the standard charger for all mobile handsets, regardless of who made them or what model they are. This means that users will be able to charge their phones through any available charging device, as opposed to having to hunt for a compatible one, and that this will lead to fewer chargers being produced and a smaller environmental footprint for the mobile phone industry.
According to the ITU the standard was drawn up with the aid of the GSMA, which in turn estimates that it will create a 50 per cent reduction in standby energy consumption, eliminate 51,000 tonnes of redundant chargers, and avoid 13.6 million tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions each year. The new chargers will also be required to earn a 4-star or higher efficiency rating, up to three times more energy-efficient than alternatives.
Malcolm Johnson, director of ITU's Telecommunication Standardisation Bureau (TSB), said, "This is a significant step in reducing the environmental impact of mobile charging, which also has the benefit of making mobile phone use more straightforward. Universal chargers are a commonsense solution that I look forward to seeing in other areas." µ
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I can't believe they had to wait all these years until Global Warming became a real concern before they come up with an idea like this one.
Guess there's just no denying the fact that Money Rules in this world.
Given that this article is about the introduction/implementation of an across the board standard would it not have made sense to include details of when products are expected to start showing up? Presumably the people setting the standards have been talking to/include manufacturers.
so 66 Billion mobile phones will have to be thrown away on the heap of telephonic excrement to save the planet...
and will sellers allow you to buy a new mobile phone without a charger and you'll save a few bucks?
Sean, now it's not like all mobile phones not using this suddently will stop working. It will just be a gradual change when people buy a new phone - so the first new phone - little change as everybody needs the new charger. Only when there is more than 2 mobile phones in the house will the first purchase mean less chargers
How is that any different than now? Every time I buy a new phone, my old chargers are obsolete and go in the trash.
The reason it took so long to implement is because of the markup the phone companies charge for accessories.
As part of this agreement, companies don't have to make phones that match up to the standard - instead they can make an adapter. So when you need to buy a replacement power cable, you have the option to buy TWO pieces of equipment (standard cord, adapter) instead of one.
The joy of negotiated progress!