The replaceable battery can return to the smartphone
According to the new harmonized set of rules announced by the European Union (EU) on December 9th, the entire life cycle of a battery, from design to end of life, must meet requirements including ease of assembly and disassembly and alternatives that present themselves at least at the same time more information for users. This regulation was introduced in December 2020 to promote a circular economy and reduce the environmental impact at all stages of the battery life cycle.
Samsung smartphone models use a removable battery. Photo: technician
The regulation applies to all batteries sold in the EU, including mobile device batteries, SLI batteries, LMT vehicle batteries, light-duty batteries (which power the motors of wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles), electric vehicles and bicycles, electric vehicle (EV) batteries. and industrial batteries.
In principle, three years after the law came into force, portable batteries in electronic and household products must be designed in such a way that consumers can remove and replace them themselves. They also have a label and QR code with information on capacity, performance, shelf life, chemistry, and a user-readable “assembled” icon. Specifically for LMT batteries, industrial batteries over 2 kWh and batteries for electric vehicles, a “digital battery passport” is required, which contains information on the battery model as well as specific information on each battery type and its use. . .
All companies manufacturing or supplying batteries for the EU market, except small and medium-sized enterprises, must develop and implement a battery “testing policy” according to international standards to solve battery problems. Social and environmental risks related to the sourcing, processing and sale of raw materials.
Based on the ruling, the EU will decide on December 31, 2030 whether to phase out non-rechargeable mobile batteries for general use. The battery regulation is awaiting final approval by the European Parliament, but no concrete timeframe is known. If approved, it will set even higher environmental standards for the global battery market in the years to come.
Pressure on electronics companies
consequences next networkThe requirement that portable batteries in electronic devices be designed so that they can be easily removed and replaced by the consumer is more beneficial to the user, particularly in terms of longevity. But the new regulations could jeopardize the operations of big consumer electronics brands like Apple and Samsung.
Most smartphones and laptops on the market today have a built-in, non-removable battery. This design aims to create products that are thinner and stronger. If there is a problem with the battery, users are forced to contact a service center or a store instead of repairing it themselves.
Meanwhile acc SamMobile, electronics companies may need to change their sales strategy for devices in Europe. In addition, they must consider existing supply chains and production facilities and participate in joint decisions with processors.
Previously, the EU also approved requirements for electronics manufacturers to equip their consumer products, including mobile phones, with USB-C connectors. Apple is considered to be the most affected company if the current iPhone uses the Lightning port. However, the company is expected to switch to USB-C after the launch of the iPhone 15 next year.
Bao Lam