The European Union has established a key regulation to address the short lifespan of batteries in electronic devices. Beginning in 2027, all mobile phones and other portable electronic gadgets sold within European territory must be designed to allow users to autonomously replace their batteries, without needing to rely on specialized technical services. The primary goal of this measure is to reduce electronic waste and extend the durability of these devices.
Manufacturers, who have focused on increasingly slim and lightweight designs in recent years, will now need to rethink the aesthetics of their products to facilitate battery removal. This innovation is expected to maintain a balance between thinness and functionality, avoiding a return to designs from past decades. The intention is to promote more durable, repairable, and sustainable products, combating planned obsolescence.
This regulation addresses a persistent issue that has led many consumers to replace their devices every few years due to battery degradation. Under the new rules, companies will be obligated to supply spare parts for at least 10 years. Furthermore, they must provide repair manuals and ensure devices can be disassembled with common tools, thereby enabling simple and affordable home repairs.
