Since February 2027, the European Union has been implementing new regulations that radically change mobile phones and tablets. The rules, adopted in 2023, impose batteries substituted by the user with simple tools. The batteries will retain 80% of their capacity after 800 charging cycles and will remain available for five years. Spare parts will be offered for up to 10 years, while devices will be labelled with life-long, durable and repairable information. The aim is to reduce electronic waste and extend the life of devices.
Analyticalally:
From 2027 a new European Union regulation will enter into force by radically changing the method of selling to mobile phones. Brussels adopts new rules on mobile phones (smartphones) and digital tablets by introducing a new set of regulations that place durability and repair capability at the center.
The European Union introduces new rules regulating how smartphones will be manufactured
Since February all smartphones and tablets sold in Europe should have batteries that can be replaced by the user.
The rules were adopted in 2023, within a wider package of measures. This decision will directly affect both manufacturers and millions of users.
Switch battery to mobile phones
The EU intervention provides that replacement batteries for each model should remain available to users for at least five years after the last unit of the product was placed on the market.
In this way, consumers will be able to purchase new battery when the old one is exhausted and easily change it themselves, reducing costs and reducing electronic waste in the EU, according to officials.
For many users the reason for upgrading their mobile or tablet is not a broken device, but a damaged battery. In essence, the new regulation activated by Brussels aims to extend the useful life of devices.
For manufacturers and consumers
The frame is wide and covers the way the devices are manufactured, maintained and repaired over time:
- Batteries that can be replaced by the user using simple, easily available tools.
- The batteries must maintain at least 80% of their capacity after 800 charging cycles
- Spare parts must be available for up to 10 years after release.
- Key components should be delivered within about 5-10 working days
- Public access to repair manuals.
- No restrictions apply to repairs by third parties or independent technicians.
- Devices designed for easier opening and maintenance.
There is also a directive aimed at consumers. Mobile phones sold in the EU will have labels indicating battery life, energy efficiency, durability and a repair rating so that this information is taken into account when making the purchase decision.
