Could Nintendo release a Switch with two removable batteries in Europe?

According to numerous reports from sources such as Nikkei, Nintendo is planning to release a hardware revision of the Switch 2 with a replaceable battery specifically for the European market.

Why is the removable battery version only available in the EU?

The cause stems from new European Union (EU) law:

• Regulations require that battery-powered devices allow users to replace the batteries themselves (user-replaceable batteries).
• This law will come into effect in 2027.
• Applicable to multiple devices: phones, laptops, handheld gaming consoles.

This forced Nintendo to adjust its design to comply with regulations, at least in the EU market.

How is the new version different from the current one?

Notable changes:

• Removable battery (replaceable battery):
  • Users can replace the battery themselves.
  • No specialized tools required.
• The Joy-Con 2 controllers are also included:
  • The battery in the handle is also replaceable.
• Repair-friendly design:
  • In line with the 'right to repair' trend.

What about outside of Europe?

Present:

• Japan and the US: no official changes yet.
• Nintendo could expand if these regions adopt similar laws.
• It's also possible that this is just a region-specific hardware version.

+ What impact does the removable battery have on users?

Main benefits:

• Increase device lifespan.
• Reduce repair costs.
• No need to send it to the service center for battery replacement.

However:

• This can lead to different hardware versions depending on the region.
• It is unclear whether Nintendo sells its own batteries.

Nintendo will likely release a new Switch 2 with a removable battery in Europe to comply with regulations. This is a major hardware design change, but it's not yet certain that it will be implemented globally.