Battery Regulations
Ongoing coverage on Battery Regulations.
Latest coverage
The EU's new Nintendo Switch 2 model teardown confirms smaller battery, slightly heavier console
Nintendo has released updated Nintendo Switch 2 models to comply with EU regulations, including the Right to Repair and updated battery rules. Teardowns reveal a slightly smaller battery (1% reduction) and a 14-gram increase in console weight. The new design also makes screws more accessible for easier user repairs.
European Commission will not force smartwatches and other wearables to have replaceable batteries
The European Commission will not mandate replaceable batteries for smartwatches and other wearables. While a 2023 regulation requires many electronics to have replaceable batteries by 2027, this specific category has been exempted.
Nintendo confirms Switch 1 consoles will be withdrawn from Europe following EU law change on batteries
Nintendo will discontinue sales of its original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED models in Europe starting mid-February 2027 due to upcoming EU battery regulations requiring user-replaceable batteries. While revised products with replaceable batteries will be rolled out from summer 2026, several Nintendo accessories will not receive such updates. The company plans to continue selling Switch hardware outside of European business regions.
Nintendo will stop selling the Switch 1 in Europe in 2027
Nintendo will cease sales of the Nintendo Switch in Europe in 2027 due to upcoming battery regulations. This decision impacts the console's availability in the European market.
Nintendo Switch consoles to be discontinued in 2027 — but only in Europe
Nintendo will discontinue sales of all original Nintendo Switch models, including the Switch Lite and OLED Model, in Europe by mid-February 2027 due to upcoming battery regulations. While new Switch 2 consoles and accessories will feature replaceable batteries to comply, the older models will cease to be sold to retailers. Manufacturing of the original Switch consoles will continue through 2026.
Nintendo officially announces revisions for Switch 2 and more in Europe in light of new battery regulations
Nintendo has announced revisions for several European products, including the Nintendo Switch 2, starting summer 2026 to comply with upcoming EU battery regulations effective February 2027. These revisions will primarily involve the introduction of user-replaceable batteries, with minimal changes to functionality or weight. Specific product availability will vary across European countries.
