Nintendo reportedly planning revised Switch 2 model with replaceable battery in EU

Nintendo is reportedly planning to release a revised Switch 2 model for the European Union, making it easier for consumers to replace its battery.

This is according to Japanese outlet Nikkei (via Cover Geek), which said the firm is aligning with 2023 EU legislation mandating replaceable batteries in portable consoles by 2027.

If implemented, users could replace the batteries in both the Switch 2 console and its Joy-Con 2 controllers.

Nintendo has not made an official announcement, and GamesIndustry.biz has requested confirmation regarding this revised model.

Nikkei noted it is unclear what a revised Switch 2 would mean for existing EU units or how it would affect warranties. It also suggested the change could come to Japan and the US if consumer law is revised.

As stated in the 2023 EU legislation, manufacturers are required to make batteries accessible in portable consoles and other devices.

Consumers should be able to replace batteries using commercially available or specialised tools, while firms should provide instructions and safety information.

The EU has set a target for producers to collect waste from portable batteries of 63% by the end of 2027 and 73% by the end of 2030.