Just in June 2024, the European Union officially passed a new regulation called “Right to Repair” and took effect the next month. This new regulation requires member states to improve the “repairability” of domestic electronic-related products by July 2026, thereby extending the service life and reducing the generation of electronic waste. Under the pressure of this policy, Nintendo is also rumored to have begun adjusting the design of its consoles for the local area.
According to Japan’sNikkei” reported that Nintendo is currently developing a new Nintendo Switch 2 console model for the European market. The biggest change is that users can replace the batteries of the console and Joy-Con 2 controller by themselves. This news is regarded by many industry insiders and players as Nintendo’s positive response to the new EU regulations.
At present, the Nintendo Switch 2 console still adopts an integrated design. Unless it is handed over to Nintendo official or private professional maintenance personnel, it is almost difficult for ordinary players to replace the battery of the console by themselves. As for this rumored new model, it is expected to greatly simplify the battery replacement process, making daily maintenance easier and more intuitive.
In addition to the host, it is rumored that the Joy-Con controller will also comply with EU regulations and launch a version with a replaceable battery. If this rumor comes true, it will indeed greatly extend the overall product life and significantly reduce the maintenance threshold of the host and controller.
Since this is a model launched in compliance with EU regulations, rumors also suggest that Nintendo only plans to launch it locally. As for whether the relevant changes have the opportunity to be expanded to versions in other countries, it has yet to be determined, and Nintendo has not yet issued any official response to this rumor.
Source: KOCPC Chinese