The European Commission (EU) has granted exemptions to six device categories, meaning they won’t need to feature user-replaceable batteries. These include smartwatches, fitness bands, smart glasses, certain medical tools, electronic toys, thermometers, and devices used in hazardous areas.
The original regulation, introduced in 2023 under the European Green Deal, was designed to cut electronic waste by making batteries easier to swap out. That rule was supposed to kick in by 2027. However, officials have now decided that for some products, letting users open up the device could hurt performance or safety. For example, water resistance or durability might suffer if the battery is too easy to access.
Even though these gadgets are exempt, they still must be repairable by qualified technicians. Wireless earbuds, like Apple’s AirPods, may also qualify for this exception if the Commission decides that user access to the battery poses risks.
Smartphones are not exempt. They still have to meet the battery rules, but the law allows some flexibility. If a repair doesn’t need special tools, or if the company provides those tools, and the phone stays safe, then it’s acceptable.
The proposed draft exemptions are now with the European Parliament and the Council of the EU for review. If there are no objections, the new rules will take effect 20 days after they appear in the EU’s Official Journal.
The EU originally pushed for replaceable batteries to support a greener economy. The goal was to extend product life, promote reuse, and lower waste. But these exceptions show a need to balance environmental aims with practical design concerns.