The European Commission introduced battery regulations that required all manufacturers to create versions of their current devices featuring user-replaceable batteries starting in 2023. This legislation will take effect in 2027, leaving companies with under a year to prepare compliant models. Nintendo has already responded by revealing plans for a revised Switch 2 handheld with this feature. Additional major brands are anticipated to introduce similar updates. Yet the rules provide exemptions for certain items such as medical equipment and wet appliances due to safety considerations. The regulator has now expanded this list with six further categories, covering smartwatches, fitness trackers, and electric toys.

EU Exemption Releases Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch from Requirements

Through an official announcement, the European Commission confirmed the addition of six product types to the exempted list under regulation 2023/1542. Wearables such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, along with electric toys and items covered by the ATEX Directive for explosive environments including specialized motors, sensors, pumps, and vehicles, no longer need user-replaceable batteries.

This update allows companies including Apple and Samsung to avoid redesigning the Apple Watch and Galaxy Watch series for easy battery swaps by consumers. Products like Apple's AirPods may similarly fall outside the regulation's scope. Previously, exemptions covered only medical devices and wet appliances such as electric toothbrushes. These exceptions stem from risks tied to battery access and replacement.

Improper reassembly after a battery change, for instance, could allow water to enter and harm internal components. In these situations, the EU permits designs where only trained independent professionals can handle battery removal and replacement.

Issued in 2023, the EU Batteries Regulation 2023/1542 mandates that specific portable devices sold across the EU include batteries removable by users with standard tools. The requirement activates on February 18, 2027, giving manufacturers limited time to develop and release updated models.