ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 25 USB A+A – Early convenience, limited power In the early 2010s, USB-A charging began to appear in public spaces and furniture, providing a simple and universal method to power cell phones and small devices. These early solutions typically delivered 5W–10W of power, sufficient for phones at the time, but inadequate for laptops, tablets, and power-hungry accessories. Why change happened – two reasons: • Consumers needed on-the-go power • Limitation – power output was too low for anything larger USB A+C – The transition phase With the rise of newer smartphones, tablets, and portable devices using USB-C cables, a transitional port setup emerged: USB-A + USB-C. This setup maintained backward compatibility while introducing faster charging (up to 18–25W) via USB-C. What happened? Device manufacturers began shipping phones with USB-C ports. Power module manufacturers adapted to support both legacy and modern users. Benefit: Mid-level fast charging for newer phones, with legacy USB-A support for existing users. USB C+C – The modern charging standard As USB-C adoption became nearuniversal across Android devices and newer Apple products, the next logical step was a dual USB-C port configuration, offering 30W fast charging suitable for nearly all phones, tablets, and accessory devices. The Journey of USB Charging From convenience to global standard - Today, more than 6 billion devices use the USB system - USB Implementers Forum. Below, Paul Noonan of Switch Electrical Solutions outlines the evolution of the USB Charger so far. Industry News Switch Electrical Distribution Why it happened: The market demanded faster, universal, and more sustainable charging solutions. Benefit: Three-pin plug usage is rapidly declining in most devices, replaced by modular, USB-C-based solutions. The game changer – EU legislation on universal charging In 2022, the European Union passed legislation mandating USB-C as the universal standard for cell phones, tablets, and other small electronics sold in the EU by 2024. This has driven global adoption even outside Europe as manufacturers standardize production globally. Where is this leading? In short, we are heading toward a world where three-pin plug sockets are no longer necessary for charging personal electronics. The shift is already visible in: • Airports, where high-wattage USB-C is being rolled out in lounges and terminals • Universities and libraries, providing fast charging at every table or seat without trailing cords • Modern offices, where desks, meeting tables, soft seating, breakout areas, and training rooms are being fitted with modular, scalable USB-C charging for both phones and laptops • Hotels, trains, and public venues, ensuring seamless charging without adapters or power bricks What about USB-D? Will the evolution continue? As of 2025, there is no formal public specification or roadmap for a USB-D standard. Industry bodies, including the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), are focused on enhancing USB-C performance rather than introducing a new connector form. Given current trajectories, USB-C is likely to dominate the market for at least another 5–10 years with incremental improvements rather than complete overhauls. Market saturation and regulatory alignment most likely discourage introducing a new physical connector any time soon. Conclusion – From adaptation to leadership The evolution of USB charging from USB-A to high-wattage USB-C has not only made device charging faster and more efficient, but it’s also reshaping how commercial environments are designed. USB-C is no longer a feature — it’s an expectation. Those who adopt early will lead in design, functionality, and customer satisfaction. Paul from Switch Electrical Solutions (suppliers of OE Products in Ireland) has announced that OE Electrics products now include USB-C charging offering up to 100 watt capabilities across their range of ondesk, below-desk, and in-desk power solutions — providing customers with even greater flexibility and functionality in the workspace. Switch Electrical Solutions takes pride in offering a comprehensive 360° service — from initial project consultation, product evaluation, and selection, through to final order placement. Whether clients are designing a new office or upgrading existing setups, the company’s expert team is available to help identify and deliver the ideal power solution. For more information about how OE’s enhanced USB-C enabled products can benefit upcoming projects, contact Switch Electrical Solutions at 01 452 4182.
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