Nintendo switch 2 gets removable battery & new controllers, europe first

Nintendo is doubling down on consumer demands with a revamped Switch 2 model featuring a removable battery and updated Joy-Con controllers, according to a report in the Nikkei newspaper. This move, spurred by the European Union's 'right to repair' legislation, signals a significant shift in console design and a response to disappointing overseas sales of the previous generation.

European union's right to repair legislation drives change

The updated Switch 2, slated for a European debut, aligns with the EU's 2023 legislation mandating electronics manufacturers to make devices easier to repair. This means users will finally be able to replace depleted batteries instead of purchasing entirely new consoles – a change analysts at IGN had previously noted. PlayStation and Apple have already made similar adjustments to their devices, demonstrating the industry-wide shift.

The Nikkei report details that the new controllers will allow for individual battery replacement via lithium-ion cells. While a Japanese-only version of the Switch 2 exists, priced lower than international models, it’s region-locked. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa recently acknowledged that overseas sales lagged behind projections at the end of 2025, a candid admission that suggests the company is prioritizing broader market appeal.

This isn’t Nintendo’s only recent challenge. The company is currently engaged in a legal battle with the U.S. government over tariffs, seeking a refund. However, the Switch 2 update arrives with a welcome performance boost, allowing most Switch 1 games to run at enhanced speeds when docked – a substantial improvement for players.

The move reflects a broader trend: consumers are increasingly valuing repairability and longevity over planned obsolescence. Nintendo’s response isn’t just a pragmatic adjustment; it’s a recognition that customer expectations are evolving. The question is whether this update will be enough to rekindle enthusiasm, especially considering the sluggish international uptake.

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