As it was more than a decade ago: the European Union seeks that cell phones have replaceable batteries again

The European Union has reached a provisional agreement for the cell phones and other portable devices have replaceable batteries. That is, just as it was years ago, users will be able to extract this part and change it for a new one. The law still needs to be passed.

“The EU is on a roll: first it will force smartphone manufacturers to open their devices to third-party app stores from January 2024, then it will make USB-C mandatory for portable electronic devices from the end of 2024, now has reached a tentative agreement that will require portable devices to have user-replaceable batteries”, notes GSMArena.

LOOK: WhatsApp: on which cell phones will the app no ​​longer work as of December 31?

Although the cell phones of yesteryear were the ones that used this type of battery, the project also includes other devices and even electric vehicles. “The agreement covers batteries of almost all sizeseverything from portable batteries, starting, lighting and ignition batteries for vehicles (SLI batteries), light-duty transportation (LMT) batteries – think electric scooters and bikes, electric vehicle (EV) batteries and even industrial batteries.”, he adds.

For this, the EU will give a grace period for manufacturers to adjust to the measures. “This legislation, if passed, will give manufacturers 3 and a half years to modify their portable devices in such a way that users can easily remove and replace their batteries”, indicates the medium.

LOOK: So you can save battery on your iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro max

These batteries will need all the corresponding indications for their handling, composition and future disposal. “Each battery will be required to carry labels and QR codes containing information on capacity, performance, durability, chemical composition and a ‘separate collection’ symbol. Likewise, the batteries will have digital passports with information on both the general battery model and the individual battery.“, Add.

The reason why the EU promotes this bill is the environment. “This deal was strongly driven by environmental concerns. The plan establishes minimum levels of recycled materials for batteries: 16% cobalt, 85% lead, 6% lithium and 6% nickel.“, it states.

Source: Elcomercio

Callum

I have worked in the news industry for over 10 years. I have a vast amount of experience in writing and reporting. I have also worked as an author for a number of years, writing about technology and other topics.

I am a highly skilled and experienced journalist, with a keen eye for detail. I am also an excellent communicator, with superb writing skills. I am passionate about technology and its impact on our world. I am also very interested in current affairs and the latest news stories.

I am a hardworking and dedicated professional, who always strives to produce the best possible work. I am also a team player, who is always willing to help out others.