The European Union has set a new regulation for handheld games consoles such as the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck and will require them to have replaceable batteries from 2027. This will almost certainly apply to the successor to the Switch, if Nintendo takes that a similar route with its next generation hardware and also whatever Valve is cooking up next. Games Industry says that manufacturers will be required to make batteries accessible for consumers “using commercially available or specialised tools, and provide instructions and safety information.” Android Central also says that tablets and phones will be required to have replaceable batteries by 2027.
EU: Handheld consoles will be required to have replaceable batteries by 2027
That… is a BAD IDEA! I’m sorry, but replaceable batteries have mostly been phased out. How outdated can the EU get? This will not go over well with gamers, I guarantee you that.
Why in the world would it be bad for consumers lol. It gives them a much easier time replacing an outdated battery. Literally no other negatives, this is completely in the consumer’s favor. You must be thinking of AA battery’s, no their talking about the battery that powers the system. They last years before needing replacement.
There actually is a negative. The reason replaceable batteries where phased out was to make phones water tight and less prone to dust. Though when it comes to consoles that need air circulation, there really isn’t a negative.
Question:
When will you ever take your Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Successor Console to any place that would have mounds of Dust and Water? Also there are still phones that have fully replaceable parts including the battery that solved that issue with seals around the case.
You actually wrong, its not related.
If I recall correctly Sony had a phone with replaceable battery and kept it water resistant.
And is the switch water resistant at all? If not than why would you immediately whine?
You never owned a Wii U, haven’t you?
A replaceable battery? Not quite sure if this is a good idea. Finding the right replaceable battery base on what type of battery it has for any machine is going to be nerve wrecking.
“Right to repair” laws are a fundamentally good thing for consumers.
I have money but i dont buy other (pc) handheld because menu and options is too complicated. Switch menu is more easy. Best handheld is gb advance because is without menu :) only play :)
And easy change battery is better idea. In mine ds 3ds battery acid ruin console inside after long time no charge :( mine gb advance is 100% ok
Correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure the batteries in iPads, phones, laptops and the switch are already replaceable, you just have to take them apart to replace the battery or send them away to have it done.
To everyone here: there is a very BIG difference between a replaceable battery and a REMOVABLE battery. I think a lot of people are confusing the two. The EU is NOT saying that in 2027, you will be able to pop off the plastic back of your Switch and put it a new battery, like the flip phone days of old. Right now, if you attempt to open up your Switch (or iPhone, etc.) and replace a dying a battery, you instantly void your hardware warranty on top of having to buy a third-party replacement battery. What the EU is saying, is that all companies making handheld devices have to provide official battery replacements and the tools necessary to open up their systems, and allow consumers to make those replacements on their own without voiding any warranties. This is a GOOD thing for everyone. Apple and Nintendo and everyone else can still make their systems just as they are now, they just also have to sell you official batteries and tools to open it up in case your battery degrades or dies.
@Cass Miller
Thanks, I got the gist of from the article but there are those that do need an explanation and me reading your comment pretty much confirmed what I thought was meant, still a good read. Anyways thanks and your comment was really helpful. I would comment and give an explanation but as soon as I type I go neanderthal meaning I suck at explanations.
I think it’s good they are doing this mostly cuz of Right To Repair, if only the USA would follow suit.
I don’t think some people are fully understanding the story. The regulation is saying that consumers should be able to gain easy access to the battery. You can’t do that on the Switch. You have to perform minor surgery to get access to it and it’s a task beyond a lot of folk. Nintendo recommends you send it in to them. That (paid)service won’t be available forever, it’ll be gone within the decade.
@cass. I wanted to thumbs up for that insightful comment. Well done sir
Companies make products with a limited limited life expectancy on purpose. Anything that helps negate this is a positive.
Yep. If they didn’t, some of us would NEVER replace our smartphones.