A new law passed by the European Union (EU) will require handheld gaming consoles to have replaceable batteries by 2027. The regulation, adopted by the Council of the European Union, aims to regulate the entire life cycle of batteries, ensuring their safety, sustainability, and competitiveness. This law will allow users to easily remove and replace portable batteries using commonly available tools, without the need for specialized equipment or service centers.
Implications for Manufacturers
While existing devices like the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and Asus Rog Ally will not be affected, future iterations of these consoles will need to be redesigned to accommodate replaceable batteries. Manufacturers will have four years to adapt and modify their products to meet the new regulation. They will also be required to provide a detailed manual and safety instructions to assist users in the battery replacement process.
The Right-to-Repair for Consumers
The new regulation aligns with the right-to-repair movement, empowering end-users to easily replace defective batteries at home. This eliminates the need for costly visits to service centers and promotes consumer autonomy. However, companies may resist these changes in an attempt to maintain control over their services and maximize profits.
Limitations and Future Developments
It is important to note that the regulation only applies to handheld gaming consoles sold within the EU. Additionally, the proposal does not explicitly mention gaming devices but has been confirmed to include them by an EU source. The impact of these rules on future Nintendo consoles, such as a successor to the Switch, remains uncertain. Rumors of a Switch Pro have circulated, but no official announcements have been made. The Steam Deck and Rog Ally, both relatively new devices, are unlikely to see updated versions anytime soon.
Other companies, such as Sony PlayStation, are also entering the handheld gaming market. Sony’s Project Q allows users to stream games from the PS5 console using Remote Play or Wi-Fi. It features an 8-inch 1080p LCD screen with buttons and analogue sticks similar to the DualSense controller.
Ultimately, the EU’s new regulation on replaceable batteries for handheld gaming consoles aims to promote sustainability and provide consumers with greater control over their devices. As the industry adapts to these changes, the future of handheld gaming consoles within the EU will be shaped by these new requirements.
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