The shift stems from two major legislative frameworks. Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/1670, already in effect, targets smartphones and tablets, while the broader Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 expands these requirements to almost all consumer hardware. By next year, the rules will cover a vast array of gadgets, including headphones and e-readers. Crucially, companies must ensure compatible spare batteries remain available for purchase for at least five years after a product hits the market.
The End of Glued-In Batteries: Europe Mandates User Repairability
By February 18, 2027, the era of impenetrable, non-removable device batteries will effectively conclude across the European Union. New regulatory standards mandate that manufacturers design portable electronics—from handheld gaming consoles to laptops—so that users can extract and replace internal power cells using only standard or provided basic tools.
While the mandate prohibits the current industry standard of permanent adhesives, it does not require a return to snap-on covers. Manufacturers may rely on designs that require basic screws, provided the necessary tools are included with the device at no extra cost. Smartphones and tablets remain under a distinct, stricter umbrella, requiring parts availability for seven years, with specific provisions ensuring that end users can perform repairs without needing professional intervention. This legislation forces a fundamental rethink of product architecture, prioritizing longevity and recyclability over the slim, sealed profiles that have dominated hardware design for the last decade.
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