Telecommunications & Media
EU new rules spur removable battery designs, with headphones, e-readers and game devices redesigned
Design changes are accelerating in the electronics market as the European Union prepares to implement new battery rules requiring users to replace batteries themselves. The shift is emerging first in peripherals such as headphones, e-readers and handheld game devices, rather than smartphones. From Feb. 18, 2027, many portable devices with batteries must be designed for user removal and replacement, with makers also required to sell compatible batteries for at least five years.
