Forum calls for standard phone chargers

All mobile phone manufacturers should use standard USB connectors to charge and connect handsets, according to a recommendation paper published by the Open Mobile Terminal Platform (OMTP).

The OMTP - a forum funded by mobile phone companies that include members O2, Orange, Three, Telefnica and Vodafone - asserts that charging and data transferring should take place over the same cable, and that a single, cross manufacturer standard USB would benefit the mobile consumer, who change devices on average twice a year.

"OMTP members are keen to pursue the single cable connectivity development due to its multiple benefits," said OTMP Managing Director Tim Raby. "We see these recommendations as a clear and demonstrable example of the work we are doing to make the mobile experience less confusing, less complicated and easier for consumers."

While handset manufacturers may not be eager to limit their design options, OTMP has a successful track record of implementing industry standards, with completed projects for camera resolutions, screen resolutions and seamless browser integration.

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