The role of batteries in smartphones has always been a crucial consideration. As their usage stretches over time, they inevitably undergo degradation, leading to decreased performance.
The issue of battery degradation has prompted a recent legislative move in the European Parliament. They have adopted a policy compelling smartphone manufacturers to reintroduce products with removable batteries.
A Directive for Removable Batteries: Europe Takes the Lead
Addressing the realm of repairability, the European Parliament has recently passed a law that mandates electronic vendors, particularly in the mobile phone sector, to rethink their product designs. Specifically, manufacturers are now obligated to provide smartphones that grant users the ability to personally replace their device batteries.
The underlying motive for this policy change is rooted in the previously mentioned battery degradation. By offering smartphones with removable batteries, users are empowered to independently swap out batteries should their device’s battery life decline.
This progressive step means that users of smartphones featuring removable batteries will no longer need to rely on service centers for battery-related issues. Consequently, electronic devices, including current-generation smartphones, are being steered toward incorporating removable batteries, allowing users to autonomously address battery concerns.
Scheduled to take effect in 2027, this regulation signifies a forward-looking approach to enhance consumer empowerment and sustainable product use.
