Nintendo Switch 2: Rumored Model with Replaceable Battery for Europe

Nintendo is preparing a revised version of its forthcoming Switch 2 console specifically for the European market, featuring a user-replaceable battery, according to reports from Japanese financial news outlet Nikkei. The move comes in response to latest European Union regulations focused on extending product lifecycles and reducing electronic waste.

The EU’s “right to repair” directive, which came into effect in 2023, mandates that manufacturers design devices with batteries that can be easily removed and replaced by consumers. As of February 27th, portable devices sold within the EU must adhere to this standard. Nintendo’s initial Switch 2 design did not meet these requirements, necessitating the revision, Nikkei reported.

While the revised model is initially targeted at Europe, Nintendo has indicated it may extend similar policies to Japan and the United States should consumer demand for repairability increase. Past Nintendo handheld consoles featured easily accessible batteries, but both the original Switch and the anticipated Switch 2 have internal battery configurations requiring specialized tools for replacement.

The Nikkei report follows a similar announcement from NintendoLife, which also cited the Nikkei report, noting that the change is a direct response to EU rules. The publication also highlighted previous criticism of Nintendo’s controller designs, specifically the Switch 2 Pro Controller, which iFixit described as having a non-user-replaceable battery.

The EU’s push for repairability extends beyond batteries. In 2022, the bloc mandated the standardization of phone chargers, leading Apple to adopt USB-C for iPhones sold in the region. Nintendo’s approach with the Switch 2 appears to be mirroring this trend toward broader compatibility and consumer control.

It remains unclear whether the battery-replaceable Switch 2 will be marketed as a distinct version of the console or as a “silent” revision, similar to a 2019 update to the original Switch that included improved battery life and security enhancements. Nintendo has not yet commented on the reports.