EU Forces Nintendo Switch 2 Battery Upgrade

Nintendo is reportedly preparing a revised version of its Switch 2 console, featuring a user-replaceable battery. This modification is in direct response to a 2023 EU 'right-to-repair' policy that mandates easy battery replacement for portable electronics.

The upcoming EU legislation also extends to the Joy-Con controllers, which are expected to be redesigned for user-accessible lithium-ion battery replacement. While the exact launch date for this updated console remains unknown, the policy allows companies until 2027 to implement these required changes.

This significant update is currently slated for European markets. Nintendo has not announced plans to release this refreshed console in other regions. However, this situation could evolve if other countries enact comparable consumer-friendly repair policies.

This EU directive has already prompted other major tech companies, such as Apple, to make their products more amenable to battery swapping. There are also unconfirmed reports suggesting Sony may similarly update its devices in response to these regulations.

There is speculation that the original Switch model might cease sales in the EU by the end of 2027 unless Nintendo opts to redesign the older device. The company has yet to issue an official statement regarding these developments.