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Nintendo has just confirmed that it's releasing a new model of its Switch 2 console in Europe to comply with EU regulations related to batteries and waste.
In case you've not heard the chatter about consumer rights and the European Union's aim to reduce battery waste, it's been quite a topic over the last few years – especially as companies continue to release products that don't allow folks who purchase them to repair them alone or replace their batteries.
The same can be said for the Switch 2, which launched last June with no replaceable battery in sight… until now, that is.
Conversations surrounding a new Nintendo Switch 2 with a replaceable battery have made rounds online throughout the past year or so, with such discussions rising back into the limelight this week as the manufacturer confirms the rumored console model is underway.
Over on its official website, Nintendo outlines how it's changing things up a bit to comply with EU regulations – including the oft-discussed Batteries Regulation.
"The Regulation requires that from February 18th, 2027, batteries integrated into certain appliances and sold in the EU must be easily replaceable by end-users at any time during the lifetime of the product," it writes. "Nintendo is implementing measures to comply with these requirements by preparing versions of products to meet the Regulation."
To do so, early next year, there will be a new model of the Switch 2 in Europe.
"For current products with model numbers starting with 'BEE,' future compliant versions will have unique model numbers and the additional code 'OSM' visible on the packaging," as the company concludes, "designating them as separate products for regulatory purposes."
That's pretty good news for those in the EU lucky enough not to have bought a Switch 2 yet – but as for the people who have (hi, it's me), I suppose it'll just have to be the ol' battery model.
There are various other interesting changes coming into effect, too, though – I'd recommend giving Nintendo's statement a read if you're in Europe yourself, honestly.
