Apple Urges India to Delay EU-Inspired Charger Rule

Apple Urges India to Delay EU-Inspired Charger Rule Image: Dawn

Sabiha Rajpoot | December 6, 2023 | 06:13 PM IST | Technology | Follow on Google News

Apple Urges India to Delay EU-Inspired Charger Rule

Apple Urges India to Delay EU-Inspired Charger Rule

Apple, a tech giant based in the U.S., is lobbying India to postpone the implementation of a European Union-like rule mandating universal charging ports for smartphones. A government document reveals that Apple has raised concerns about the impact on its local production targets if India adopts the EU’s requirement. The company is seeking an exemption or delay, citing potential challenges in meeting production goals.

Apple’s unique lightning connector port for iPhones has been a trademark feature for years. While other manufacturers, including Samsung, have agreed to comply with India’s plan to adopt a universal USB-C charging port, Apple is resisting the change. The EU estimates that a single charger solution could save consumers approximately $271 million, emphasizing the environmental benefits and reduction of e-waste.

Apple’s Plea in Closed-Door Meeting

In a closed-door meeting on November 28 chaired by India’s IT ministry, Apple representatives requested the exemption of existing iPhone models from the proposed charging port rules. Apple argued that compliance could hinder its ability to meet production targets set under India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme—a significant project for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The PLI scheme provides fiscal incentives to electronic manufacturers for investments and incremental phone sales.

While Apple did not quantify the potential production impact, the IT ministry decided to review the request and make a decision later. Apple’s lobbying efforts in India, revealed for the first time, highlight the company’s concerns about the implications on its growth in the Indian market.

Challenges for Apple in India’s Growing Market

India is considered Apple’s next growth frontier after China, with estimates suggesting that 12-14% of iPhone production in 2023 will be from India. However, Apple faces challenges in India’s price-conscious market, where consumers prefer older iPhone models. The push for a common charger on older models could affect Apple’s market share and sales targets.

Apple emphasized in the meeting that the design of earlier products cannot be changed, and compliance with the proposed timeline would require a natural transition period. As India aims for compliance by June 2025, Apple contends that existing models need to be exempted for a smoother transition.

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Sabiha Rajpoot

Sabiha Rajpoot, a young journalist, having BA- Journalism degree, writes on different scenarios. Sabiha is also a doctor degree at DHMS.