The European Union has voted in favor of regulation requiring smartphones to have easier-to-replace batteries by around 2027. This regulation aims to benefit the environment and end users. However, there is another legislation called the Ecodesign for Smartphones and Tablets that is expected to come into effect earlier in June or July 2025. This legislation contains similar rules about replaceable smartphone batteries. The battery regulation voted on by the European Parliament is more stringent than the ecodesign regulation as it does not offer a loophole to manufacturers. It also sets requirements for battery capacity and durability. Overall, the EU’s battery regulation is seen as a big success for the right to repair movement.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU voting in favor of easy-to-replace batteries in smartphones by 2027 | Regulation requiring smartphones to have easily replaceable batteries | Increased availability of smartphones with user-replaceable batteries | Environmental benefits and consumer demand |
| Competing legislation for smartphone battery replaceability in the EU | Earlier deadline for smartphone batteries to be easier to replace (June/July 2025) | Some manufacturers may already comply by 2027 | Push for greater repairability and sustainability |
| Battery regulation is more stringent than ecodesign regulation | Stricter requirements for battery capacity and durability | Longer-lasting smartphones and reduced waste | Environmental concerns and consumer advocacy |
| Definition of “removable” focuses on accessibility of tools | Preventing the use of proprietary or specialized tools for battery replacement | More accessibility for end users to replace batteries | Ease of repair for consumers |
| Potential conflicts between user-replaceable batteries and waterproofing | Exemptions for devices regularly exposed to water | Development of devices with both features | Balancing repairability and device durability |
| Broad welcome from right-to-repair campaigners | Support for greater durability, sustainability, and repairability | Increased consumer empowerment and reduced e-waste | Advocacy for consumer rights and environmental sustainability |