The European Union (EU) Council has approved new regulations mandating replaceable phone batteries. This decision follows the EU Parliament’s endorsement and aims to empower users by enabling easy battery replacements without specialized tools or knowledge. Once signed off by both the Parliament and Council, the rules will come into effect within 20 days of publication in the EU’s Official Journal. By 2027, all phones sold in EU member countries must have replaceable batteries.
Surprisingly, Apple may actually benefit from this new decision in the long run
Apple and other companies may find it challenging and costly to maintain permanent batteries only in EU countries. Apple had already introduced USB-C ports in response to an EU ruling, signaling its adaptability to regional regulations. The introduction of replaceable batteries offers convenience to consumers, allowing them to swap drained batteries for fully charged ones. Manufacturers have until 2027 to incorporate this feature.
The regulations also promote sustainability by fostering a circular economy through battery recycling and repurposing. They cover various battery types beyond smartphones, such as electric vehicle batteries and batteries for light means of transport.
For Apple, this shift may bring unexpected advantages, including new revenue streams from selling replacement and extended batteries. It also aligns with their vision of a port-less iPhone, as users could easily swap in a fully charged battery. The EU’s move toward replaceable batteries will reshape the mobile phone industry. It may prompt global manufacturers to reassess their design strategies to meet evolving consumer demands. Ultimately, the regulations highlight the EU’s commitment to sustainability and consumer empowerment.
RELATED:
- Apple expands reach in China with new WeChat Store
- Apple supplier Foxconn eyes India’s chip subsidies after pulling out from Vedanta deal
- Best Ultra Budget Smartphones of 2023
(Via)
