Switch 2 gets removable battery, heeds eu repair rules

Nintendo is poised to address a key consumer pain point with its upcoming Switch 2. A new report confirms the revised console will feature a removable battery, a move directly influenced by the European Union's "right to repair" legislation. This change, alongside redesigned Joy-Con controllers with replaceable batteries, signals a significant shift in Nintendo's approach to hardware longevity.

Europe drives change for next-gen console

The updated Switch 2 is expected to launch first in Europe, aligning with the EU's 2023 legislation mandating electronics manufacturers to make devices more easily repairable. Companies have until February 2027 to comply. The goal is to empower consumers to extend the life of their devices by replacing depleted batteries instead of replacing the entire console—a welcome development for gamers and environmental advocates alike.

This isn't an isolated move. PlayStation updated its DualSense PS5 controllers last year for easier battery access, and Apple has similarly modified iPhones. Nintendo’s acknowledgment of weaker-than-expected overseas sales of the original Switch in late 2025 likely accelerated this transition. The company’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, admitted to “slightly weaker than our expectations” in overseas sales during a shareholder meeting, a detail previously hinted at by analysts.

While a Japanese-only version of the Switch 2 already exists, priced lower than overseas models but restricted to Japanese games and the eShop, this new iteration aims for broader appeal. The move comes as Nintendo navigates other challenges, including a recent legal battle with the U.S. government over tariffs. The company also recently released a system update allowing most Switch 1 games to run with enhanced performance on the new console in handheld mode.

The implications extend beyond consumer convenience. The EU’s “right to repair” is setting a precedent, and other regions may follow suit. Nintendo's decision reflects a pragmatic response to evolving regulatory landscapes and shifting consumer expectations—a move that could reshape the console market. The demand for longer-lasting, repairable devices is only going to intensify.