Apple and Research In Motion (RIM), NEC, Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung, Sony Ericsson and Texas Instruments also signed a memorandum of understanding to provide charger compatibility on the basis of the Micro-USB connector.

If these cutthroat competitors can agree to stop making device-specific chargers in Europe and possibly in the US at a future date, everyone can benefit. Here are five reasons why a universal charger standard is a good idea.

1. Follow The Money:The profit is in the device, not the charger. Consumers want certain functionalities from their devices. They don't buy an iPhone for its charger. If your kid mostly texts, they probably don't need a Blackberry. They may want a cute pink protective case, but just as ear buds will work with any device, that's not where the profits are.

2. Green Is Good:As the European Commission pointed out, there's a serious problem with electronic waste in Europe, and in the US, it's probably worse. Hazardous chemicals seeping into the ground pose serious health and environmental threats.

3. Waste Not, Want Not:Why would consumers want to pay for a specific mobile device charger? If someone buys a Palm Pre and switches from a Samsung Propel they are throwing away a perfectly good charger.

4. Give A Little Bit:Why would anyone want to buy device-specific chargers in an economy that's in the toilet? In the meantime, you don't have to wait for universal charger agreements go into effect. Donating used chargers to charities, such as US troops overseas, could go a long way to creating good karma.

5. Lower Prices:A universal charger standard could lead to mobile devices coming down in price. That's great news for consumers. Competitors will also reap benefits: a universal charger standard will lead to broader adoption.