For hardware manufacturers planning to launch new products in 2025 and beyond, the rules for USB-IF certification have undergone fundamental changes. It is no longer just a "bonus" for improving product compatibility but has become a legally mandatory access threshold in many regions globally, accompanied by major updates to technical specifications.
First, clarify a key concept: Current USB-IF certification has split into two parallel paths with different natures, purposes, and scopes.
1.Traditional USB-IF Certification: This is the voluntary, full-featured certification managed by the USB Implementers Forum. It comprehensively tests electrical performance, protocol compatibility, and interoperability, aiming to ensure an optimal user experience. Upon passing, the product obtains a unique TID, is listed on the official Integrators List, and has the right to use the "Certified USB" logo.
2.Regional Mandatory Compliance Programs: Exemplified by the EU's IEC 62680 Compliance Program. Established because regions like the EU have written USB Type-C and USB PD into law (e.g., EU Common Charger Directive), this is an "access test." It only tests core items mandated by law, such as safety and power delivery, resulting in shorter test cycles and lower costs. Upon passing, the product is listed on a separate compliance list but cannot use the "Certified USB" logo, and its applicability is usually limited to the legislating region.
Simply put, if a product only aims to meet the minimum legal requirements in a specific region (like the EU), the "Compliance Program" may suffice. But if you want to prove top-tier quality and enter global high-end channels or mainstream e-commerce platforms, the traditional full USB-IF certification remains indispensable hard currency.
2025 Core USB-IF Certification Updates & Technical Specifications:
Regardless of the path chosen, products need to be designed and tested according to the latest technical specifications. The following are key updates based on the latest 2025 information:
1.USB4® 80Gbps (USB4 Version 2.0): This is the current performance peak. An important part of the new rules is labeling reform—USB-IF requires devices to use intuitive performance labels (like "USB 80Gbps") instead of technical terms like "USB4 v2" for better consumer understanding. Regarding testing, USB4 2.0 has added dynamic bandwidth testing, which has been mandatory since 2025.
2.USB Power Delivery (PD) 3.2: The core fast-charging specification. The new rules clearly require that products with power delivery capability exceeding 27W must support the Adjustable Voltage Supply (*S) mode. This allows voltage to be finely adjusted in 100mV steps within ranges like 9V to 20V, which is crucial for high-power chargers and laptops. Additionally, a test called Fast Role Swap (FRS) has become a mandatory item to ensure uninterrupted power during instant role switching.
3.USB Type-C® Connector and Cable Specifications: The latest version strengthens requirements for power sharing management in multi-port chargers. For example, when a multi-port charger connects multiple devices simultaneously, the system must define its power distribution logic (e.g., "high to low" or "average distribution") and declare it through a standard communication protocol. Cables supporting 240W EPR (Extended Power Range) must be permanently marked on the physical cable with their power rating (60W or 240W).
Regional Mandatory Compliance Paths That Cannot Be Ignored:
For products sold in specific markets, focusing on mandatory requirements in the following regions is more urgent than pursuing full certification
·European Union: All portable battery-powered devices (15 categories including phones, tablets, headphones, handheld game consoles) were required to comply with IEC 62680 standards by the end of 2024. The compliance deadline for laptops is April 8, 2026. For this purpose, USB-IF specifically opened the "Compliance with IEC 62680 Specifications Program," with significantly streamlined test items, often completing testing in 1-2 days, providing a fast track to meet EU law.
·Saudi Arabia and Korea: These regions have also incorporated USB-IF standards into local regulations. Saudi Arabia requires compliance with SASO IEC 62680 and certificate application via the SABER platform. Korea requires RRA SDoC certification, with testing referencing USB-IF standards. Note that Korea's originally scheduled February 2025 implementation date has been postponed, with a new date pending.
USB-IF Certification Process and Action Guide:
1.Apply for Membership: Becoming a USB-IF member is a prerequisite. Options include Regular Member (annual fee ~$5,000 USD) and Adopter Member (one-time fee). Membership mainly affects VID (Vendor ID) acquisition and logo usage rights.
2.Preparation and Pre-testing: Prepare samples, technical documentation, and strongly consider pre-testing through an authorized lab or using the QuickTrack pre-certification service. This greatly reduces the risk and cost of formal test failure.
3.Formal Laboratory Testing: Send samples to a USB-IF Authorized Test Laboratory for comprehensive testing over 4-6 weeks. Test content covers electrical performance, physical interface, protocol compatibility, and safety/power consumption.
4.Review and Listing: After passing testing, USB-IF reviews and issues the TID. The product is listed on the official Integrators List, completing certification.
Important Timeline Reminder: USB-IF provides grace periods for older standards. For example, the certification grace period for products under USB PD3.1 (R3.1 V1.8) has been extended to March 2026. This means that after this date, new products must be certified according to the latest specifications (e.g., PD 3.2), and the old version certification channel will close.
If you can share the specific product type for USB-IF global certification (e.g., high-power multi-port charger, laptop, or dock), we can provide more targeted compliance path analysis. BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140, offers professional certification consulting services.
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