The European Union (EU) has issued a requirement concerning smartphone batteriesputting Apple, Samsung and other phone manufacturers under pressure, just as it did with the iPhone and USB-C.
Currently, these manufacturers offer devices with non-removable batterieseven if their prices are higher than those of other brands. If users want to replace the battery when it loses capacity, they have to use complex tools to carry out the process. The EU is seeking to facilitate this arduous task and encourages companies to make batteries easily replaceable. However, this legislation will not come into force for several years.
A lo applicable only from 2027, enough to satisfy defenders of the right to repair
Despite the satisfaction of the defenders of the “right to repair”, this new European law does not will not be applicable until 2027. By amending previous legislation, 587 members of the European Parliament voted in favour to require all devices to have easily replaceable batteries. The term “easily” can be confusing, as what is exceptionally difficult for first-time smartphone battery replacements may seem straightforward to others who have already carried out the operation several times.
” With 587 votes in favor, 9 against and 20 abstentions, MEPs have approved an agreement reached with the Council to revise EU rules on batteries and battery waste. The new legislation takes account of technological developments and future challenges in the sector, and will cover the entire battery life cycle, from design to end-of-life. “
Fortunately, the EU has taken this issue on board and declared that battery replacement should not require toolswhich suggests a possible return of removable backs. However, it’s important to note that this law won’t come into force until 2027, and will only apply to regions within the EU. It remains to be seen whether companies such as Apple and Samsung will modify the design of their smartphones to comply with this new law.
It should also be noted that the incorporation of removable backs could compromise watertightness of these phones, unless a well thought-out design is put in place. Companies like Apple and Samsung therefore have three and a half years to start adjusting the design of their products in EU countries.