> On the other hand I'm not sure I like the idea of government mandating electrical connectors on devices, which could stifle innovation, or be very shortsighte

> On the other hand I'm not sure I like the idea of government mandating electrical connectors on devices, which could stifle innovation, or be very shortsighted in the typical government-rules-on-tech way You seem unaware that the government regulate a LOT of things and while this has stiffed some innovation, the cost is probably worth it. When was the last time a house burned down due to electrical issues? In the past, prior to standards this was rather common. If you want a general understanding of what things were like prior to "regulation". https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knob-and-tube_wiring https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knob-and-tube_wiring Now ask how you would plug an appliance into this mess...