A new measure from the European Union requires mobile device manufacturing to adapt to user needs. Specifically, from February 18, 2027, based on EU directive 2023/1542, all new smartphones in the European Union must feature batteries that can be easily replaced by the customer. The goal of this measure is to reduce electronic waste throughout the European Union and increase product lifespan. After the changes to mobile phones that took effect on June 1st and the affected procedures, more changes are coming to mobile devices from next year. What will happen?
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EU: Changes to be implemented according to device model
The rules were approved in 2023, as part of a broader package of measures, and stipulate that batteries in portable devices must have a design that allows users to remove and replace them without specialized tools or assistance.
Currently, batteries in smartphones and tablets are integrated into devices in a way that allows removal and replacement only by specialists. The new requirement stipulates that batteries must be removable using “commercially available” tools. If specialized tools are required, they must be provided free of charge upon purchase of the phone or tablet.
However, iPhones and Galaxy phones will likely resist change. Modern smartphones have been designed around specific specifications: thin profile, high durability, water and dust protection, larger batteries, and more complex camera systems.
