Nintendo is reportedly planning a revision of the Switch 2 that would include a replaceable battery, driven by new European Union regulations requiring consumer electronics to allow easier battery replacement. The Japanese publication Nikkei revealed this move is primarily for the European market, though Nintendo might extend similar changes to Japan and the U.S. if the push for the right to repair gains momentum globally.
Historically, many Nintendo handhelds allowed users to swap out batteries without too much hassle. However, the original Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 have batteries sealed inside the device, requiring special tools and technical skill to access. This also applies to accessories like the Switch 2 Pro Controller, making this possible update a notable shift in Nintendo’s design philosophy.
The EU’s influence on tech design has been growing, highlighted by the 2022 law mandating a standard USB-C charging port. This regulation pushed Apple to ditch its proprietary Lightning connector on iPhones sold in Europe-changing the course for global releases. Given that global variants are often preferred over regional hardware differences, Nintendo may follow suit to avoid fragmenting its product line.
It is still unclear if this battery update will come as a distinct ”new version” of the Switch 2 or as a subtle internal revision-a path Nintendo took with the original Switch’s mid-cycle refresh in 2019, which improved battery life and patched hardware vulnerabilities without significant fanfare. Nintendo has yet to comment on these reports.
In summary, the Nintendo Switch 2’s expected move to a replaceable battery aligns with increasing global pressure for more repairable consumer electronics. This change could enhance user convenience and extend the device’s lifespan, reflecting evolving industry standards influenced by regulatory measures like those from the EU.