European Commission exempts smartwatches from replaceable battery rules

From 2027, every portable technology product sold in Europe will need to include a battery that users can replace easily, including PCs, smartphones and consoles. The European Commission introduced the measure to tackle planned obsolescence. However, on 14 July, the Commission amended its position: six product categories will now be exempt.

“The Commission adds six new product categories to the existing list of exemptions. These include portable devices such as smartwatches and activity trackers, electronic toys and products falling within the scope of the ATEX Directive (equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres).”

Smart glasses and devices designed to be integrated into clothing are also included among the exemptions.

Smartwatches exempt from European regulations

As a result, smartwatches will not have to comply with the European regulations. Their miniaturisation and complexity make them difficult for users alone to handle. These exemptions are not unprecedented: “wet-use” devices, such as electric toothbrushes and medical devices, were already excluded. Their batteries must nevertheless remain readily replaceable by a professional technician.

From 2027, all other technology devices, including smartphones, will therefore have to meet the new requirements. This does not mean that phones with removable back covers, as seen in the early 2010s, will return. The regulations simply require the battery to be accessible without tools specific to the manufacturer. In practical terms, either the user or a professional must be able to reach it using their own equipment. Apple already meets these requirements with its latest iPhones and iPads. Other manufacturers, however, still need to bring their products into line. Nintendo is one example, having released a new version of its Switch 2 in Europe. The first model made the battery inaccessible and was therefore non-compliant.

The European Commission's influence on technology

The European Commission regulates one of the world’s largest markets and therefore holds considerable influence across the technology sector. A few years ago, for instance, it required USB Type-C ports on all products sold in Europe, forcing Apple to abandon its Lightning connector. It also legislates on software and platforms, particularly to regulate services that could put users’ data at risk.