Europe standardizes cell phone chargers

BRUSSELS, June 29 (UPI) -- Ten of the world's largest data-enabled cell phone makers have agreed to sell standardized phone chargers in Europe, a European Commission official said.

Gunter Verheugen, the commission's vice-president in charge of enterprise and industry, said 10 companies, including Samsung, Apple, Motorola, Research In Motion and Nokia agreed to the universal standards, making it possible for customers to use an old charger when purchasing a new phone.

In addition, the move will likely make it easier for customers to replace a charger if they lose an old one.

The companies represent 90 percent of the European Union's data-enabled smart phone market, Ars Technica reported Monday.

Several companies said they would comply to save on packaging and lower costs, Ars Technica reported.