Mobile device makers want common plugs for earphones

(AFP)

An international trade group representing wireless device makers announced Wednesday it was backing a drive to standardize audio and USB plugs for laptops and other mobile gadgets.

CTIA Wireless Association said it is behind an initiative to make 3.5mm plugs the standard for earphones, headphones and micro-USB connections in mobile devices introduced to the market after January 2012.

"By simplifying input and output features on mobile devices, economies of scale will reduce consumers' costs," said CTIA president Steve Largent.

Members of the wireless industry came together in April to support having universal power chargers for devices.

US Federal Communications Commission chairman Julius Genachowski welcomed the news, saying it bodes well for consumers, inventors and the environment.

Reusing chargers and other peripherals on multiple devices could reduce electronic waste.

"I strongly support these steps and I look forward to their timely implementation," said Genachowski said.