The European Union mandates replaceable batteries in future handheld gaming devices

The European Union (EU) has passed a new regulation requiring future handheld consoles and gaming PCs to have replaceable batteries starting in 2027. The aim is to ensure consumer access to batteries and enforce sustainable practices for battery production, reuse, and recycling. The EU's documents state that batteries should be easily removable by end-users with readily available tools, without the need for specialized equipment unless provided for free.

While the regulation doesn't explicitly list gaming devices, an EU source confirmed that gaming batteries are included. This means upcoming models like Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and ROG Ally may have to grant users the right to repair, unlike current models that make internal access difficult without specialized tools.

Nintendo handhelds have lacked easily replaceable batteries since the Game Boy Color era, requiring special screwdrivers for battery replacement. The original Nintendo Switch also has a cumbersome battery replacement process.

Regulations like these impact global design choices, as seen with the rumored adoption of USB-C in the next iPhone due to EU regulations. The EU's battery mandate won't force immediate hardware redesigns, but it will influence future gaming devices. Reports suggest that Nintendo's Switch successor is under development, potentially featuring LCD screens from Sharp.