The European Union is obliging Nintendo to introduce an updated version of its Switch 2 console, specifically for the European market. A significant new feature in this upcoming model will be the provision for user-replaceable batteries.
This strategic move by Nintendo is a direct response to new and evolving EU regulations. These include the ‘right to repair’ directive and stricter battery regulations, which collectively mandate that by 2027, consumer electronics utilizing batteries must allow users to replace them independently, without requiring professional servicing.
Available information indicates that these modifications will not only apply to the console unit itself but also extend to the Joy-Con controllers. This design change means users will gain the ability to safely remove and swap out worn or malfunctioning batteries on their own, thereby eliminating the necessity for professional repairs or the expense of purchasing new devices. The exact release date for this revised model has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Furthermore, sources suggest that similar user-centric battery replacement features could eventually be implemented in other global markets, including the USA and Japan. However, this is anticipated to occur only if local consumer protection legislation in those regions also becomes more stringent.