9 May 2011: The one-size-fits-all universal charging solution of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has been further improved by extending its use to a wider variety of devices and making it more energy efficient.

The charging solution has been improved by the addition of a detachable cable with standardized end connectors that will allow connection to devices including all mobile phones and other hand-held devices, such as MP3/MP4 players, tablet computers, cameras, wireless headphones and global positioning system (GPS) devices. The cable can also be used for data transfer, avoiding an unnecessary duplicate cable and thus further reducing costs and e-waste.

In addition, ITU membership agreed to specify a no-load power consumption of the power adapter below 0.03W, which is currently the most efficient and enables a significant global energy reduction, considering that billions of chargers will be made available in the next few years. The recommended charging current has also been increased so as to reduce charging time. Several companies have already committed to the standard. Outlining the benefits of the charger, Hamadoun Touré, ITU Secretary-General, highlighted that the ITU solution is “a real step forward in addressing environmental and climate change issues.” [ITU Press Release]