Reports suggest that Nintendo is preparing a user-replaceable battery design for the Nintendo Switch 2 to comply with EU regulations, raising questions about whether this change will extend to the Korean market.

This news stems from the 'EU Batteries Regulation,' which is set to take effect in February 2027. The goal is to mandate a simplified structure where users can replace batteries using common tools, thereby facilitating battery circulation. This initiative aims to increase the collection of waste batteries and the recovery of raw materials, while also mandating the use of recycled materials in new batteries. The newly added regulation applies to portable electronic devices, including smartphones and other electronics.

Numerous overseas outlets have reported that, based on these regulations, Nintendo is redesigning the Nintendo Switch 2. Furthermore, attention is focused on whether the design will be unified in countries outside of Europe. Analysts suggest that given production efficiency and the impact of recently strengthened global environmental regulations, it is highly likely that the structure and design will be changed for the global market.

According to various teardown reviews, the battery in the existing Nintendo Switch 2 prototype uses an adhesive-fixed structure. While this rarely causes issues during official repairs, it makes home repairs virtually impossible due to concerns about re-applying adhesive or contaminating surrounding components.

However, if the internal structure is changed to meet EU regulations, users will have the option of self-repair rather than having to send the console for service or dispose of it if the Nintendo Switch 2 console or Joy-Cons experience performance degradation. This would allow users to disassemble the console and replace the battery at home using simple tools, ensuring a consistent play experience regardless of when the device was purchased. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is currently facing hurdles due to battery issues, there is high anticipation for this potential solution.

Meanwhile, this change in EU battery regulations is expected to lead to shifts across the broader landscape of portable electronics, including many handheld consoles and UMPCs.