Nintendo Switch 2 with user-replaceable batteries coming to the EU — console maker confirms it will comply with regulations set to take effect from 2027

Source: Tom’s Hardware

Image credit: Jeffrey Kampman/Tom’s Hardware

Nintendo has officially disclosed that it plans to release a new version of the Switch 2 to comply with upcoming European Union regulations. The EU’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive, taking effect on 18 February 2027, requires certain devices—including portable handheld consoles—to have easily user‑replaceable batteries if they are to be sold in the region.

EU Battery Regulation

• Nintendo’s “Compliance with EU Directives and Regulations” page now includes a Batteries Regulation section.
• The page states that Nintendo is preparing product versions that meet the regulation, referencing model numbers that start with “BEE” and an additional “OSM” code on packaging to indicate “separate products for regulatory purposes.”

Impact on the Switch 2

• The “BEE” designation applies to the Switch 2 console, Joy‑Cons, and the Pro Controller, suggesting that all could receive replaceable‑battery variants.
• These EU‑compliant units will be distinct from the standard Switch 2 models, potentially discouraging users from opting for them voluntarily.
• The changes are EU‑only; there is no indication that North American or Asian markets will receive a revised Switch 2. Importation remains possible, though it is unclear whether Nintendo will employ region‑locking to restrict usage to the EU. (Current Switch 2 models and games outside Japan are not region‑locked.)

Repairability

• While the current Switch 2’s battery can be swapped, the process is complex—iFixit lists roughly 36 steps for removal and 27 steps for reassembly.
• The console scores 3/10 in repairability, lower than the original Switch and considerably lower than recent flagship smartphones such as the iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

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Source: Nintendo – Compliance with EU Directives and Regulations