Portable Gaming Consoles, Smartphones, And Handheld Electronics Must Have User-Replaceable Batteries

The European Union recently approved a groundbreaking regulation mandating all newly manufactured mobile phones to have batteries that users can replace. It appears the new regulation will be applicable to all portable electronic devices, including handheld gaming consoles.

The new EU regulation has been in the news primarily because it includes smartphones, which are by far the most common handheld electronics in the world. However, the rules, which should come into effect in 2027, could include several more portable devices apart from smartphones.

Right To Repair Now Includes User-Replaceable Batteries

The Council of the European Union recently adopted a new regulation that focuses on batteries. Needless to say, these are one of the first components to lose their service life and make the entire device nearly useless.

The new EU regulation aims to regulate the entire life cycle of batteries. In other words, the regulation will cover all stages of battery usage; going from production to reuse to recycling. The EU wants to ensure battery production and usage remains 'safe, sustainable, and competitive.'

EU has basically empowered the growing "Right To Repair" movement. Its primary purpose is to offer an easier way to consumers who want to get aged or non-functioning batteries in their electronics replaced.

Currently, the majority of big tech companies involved in consumer electronics tightly pack their batteries inside the devices often gluing them. This makes it difficult or near impossible for the average consumer to remove, service, repair, or replace the batteries.

Gaming Consoles Too Must Have User-Serviceable Batteries?

It is important to note that the new regulation does not categorically mention handheld gaming consoles. However, an EU source has indicated that these devices will be covered under the same regulation.

Current iterations of portable gaming consoles such as Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and Asus Rog Ally won't be affected. However, their future iterations could be forced to be redesigned to allow users to remove and replace portable batteries using commercially available tools.

Although there was no regulation about user-serviceable batteries, Sony offered its PSP (PlayStation Portable) with an easily accessible battery compartment. The EU regulation could be trying to force portable gaming console makers to offer a similar situation.

While there could be intense pushback, it is quite possible that handheld console makers could eventually offer easily removable or swappable batteries. This is primarily because, unlike smartphones, these portable gaming machines need much bigger batteries.

Giving users the ability to quickly swap out batteries in their gaming consoles would also benefit manufacturers, service providers, and even battery makers. This would prolong the life of the console and even allow gamers to have prolonged gaming sessions without rushing to a power outlet.