America takes comfort in the fact we lead technology, but with mobile devices we are the exception. Europe is way ahead of us and so is China. In fact, back in Dec 2006, China made the decision to standardize cell phone charges to have a micro USB port. The reason, to reduce waste. Back then, you purchased a phone and you’d get a new wall charger. The charger was loaded with lead, plastic etc. Today, you simply get a USB cable.
Last week 17 mobile phone companies officially made the plung to accept micro USB as the connection for recharging cell phones. This decision was based on the same reasons as mentioned above.
The list includes an impressive selection of international GSMA members, including 3 Group, AT&T, KTF, LG, mobilkom austria, Motorola, Nokia, Orange, Qualcomm, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Telecom Italia, Telefónica, Telenor, Telstra, T-Mobile, and Vodafone.
“The mobile industry has a pivotal role to play in tackling environmental issues and this program is an important step that could lead to huge savings in resources, not to mention convenience for consumers,” said GSMA CEO Rob Conway. “There is enormous potential in mobile to help people live and work in an eco-friendly way and with the backing of some or the biggest names in the industry, this initiative will lead the way.”
Source: PC Magazine.
