Removable smartphone batteries in the European Union from 18 February 2027: everything you need to know

A return to the 2000s is on the way: from next year, smartphone batteries will have to be removable within the European Union. Here is what you need to know.

In recent years, the European Union (EU) has been far from idle when it comes to regulating technology. Online age verification, platform interoperability, app-store monopolies and the mandatory USB-C port: lawmakers have introduced a series of measures to govern a sector that was long left to set its own rules.

This latest regulation follows the same approach. From 18 February 2027, smartphone and tablet manufacturers selling devices in Europe will have to fit removable batteries.

What the law specifically requires

In practical terms, batteries must be “easily removable and replaceable” by the end user. This will not necessarily mean a return to the clip-on rear covers of the 2000s. Instead, devices will need to be opened without specialist tools or, where tools are needed, with those tools supplied free of charge in the box. Brands will also be required to make replacement batteries available for seven years after a model stops being sold. Consumers must not be left without an option should their battery begin to deteriorate.

According to our colleagues at 01.net, the legislation has two aims. The first is environmental: by extending devices’ usable lifespan, the EU hopes to cut electronic waste and limit planned obsolescence. The second concerns the right to repair. Even users without technical expertise should be able to replace a battery without turning to an after-sales service.

Two requirements to avoid the rule

Some brands may nevertheless be able to avoid this requirement, provided that they meet two cumulative conditions. First, the device must carry at least an IP67 certification, meaning it is protected against water and dust. Second, its battery must retain at least 80% of its capacity after 1,000 full charging cycles.

These demanding conditions effectively match the specifications of premium smartphones. Apple, for instance, states that models from the iPhone 15 onwards meet the second requirement. The manufacturer could therefore be exempt from the obligation, provided its devices also retain their IP certification.

Our analysis

The legislation presents manufacturers with a genuine strategic decision: redesign their products to comply with the rule, or invest in batteries capable enough to qualify for an exemption. This could further widen the gap between high-end and entry-level smartphones, as the latter will inevitably be subject to the removable-battery requirement.

For European consumers, however, it represents a tangible improvement. Being able to change a battery themselves could potentially add two or three years to a device’s life, while delivering the same amount of savings on buying a new phone.