The majority of the main mobile phone manufacturers - including apple - have reached a deal which will ensure that all of the phones manufactured by these companies will use a micro-USB connector. Other companies included in the deal include Samsung, RIM, Nokia and Sony Ericsson. The deal was brokered with the European Commission and will consequently only affect phones being sold in European countries.

This deal will benefit consumers as it will mean that they only need a handful of cables even if they are using several handsets. It will be of benefit when switching to a new phone, as users will not have to purchase extra cables. This also means that consumers are not at the mercy of a single company when it comes to purchasing cable’s, and will consequently not have to pay extortionate prices.

However, it is unclear how the mobile phone industry shall benefit from this deal. Despite this, the deal is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, and many - including myself - welcome it with open arms.