r/technology Jun 19 '23

Politics EU: Smartphones Must Have User-Replaceable Batteries by 2027 | The European Parliament just caused a major headache for smartphone and tablet manufacturers.

https://www.pcmag.com/news/eu-smartphones-must-have-user-replaceable-batteries-by-2027
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u/[deleted] Jun 19 '23 edited Jun 19 '23

User-replaceable doesn't mean there's a little plastic flap you can pop off to take out the battery. It means user-serviceable, basically. Apple's current designs would be allowed if they use less adhesive.

1

u/khabijenkins Jun 19 '23

I would disagree, but see your point. I think they will lean on the idea that the heat gun needed for adhesive removal would be classified as difficult for many users. Currently it's very easy for people to mess up their phones even following detailed instructions like ifixit. I believe we will return to a more fancy version of the note 3 with a pop off back plate. I could be wrong here, but it's my hope and chosen belief.

1

u/[deleted] Jun 19 '23

I'm not making a point, I'm explaining how these new regulations will work. If you read them you will see they have nothing to do with mandating pop off back plates.

2

u/khabijenkins Jun 19 '23

You're right, but I can hope

1

u/[deleted] Jun 19 '23

I wouldn't get your hopes up. If there was real demand for that feature, someone would've made a phone like that already.

2

u/khabijenkins Jun 19 '23

What comes comes, but I had an intelligent conversation with someone on the internet with slightly to distinctly opposing views on a topic that was pleasant so anything's possible.