Mobile phones in the European Union (EU) may soon have to meet new extensive requirements, according to a recent proposal. The EU has already mandated the use of USB-C as the only allowed charging connector and the ability for consumers to change the battery in their electronic products. Now, the proposal suggests that mobile phones must also be energy certified, dust and waterproof, durable, and easy to repair.
The first requirement outlined in the proposal is for cell phones to receive the same energy labeling as white goods such as refrigerators and washing machines. This labeling system, ranging from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient, aims to help consumers make sustainable choices.
Additionally, the proposal includes a “right to repair” provision, ensuring that third-party repairers have quick access to important spare parts. The parts must be available for seven years after the model has stopped being sold on the EU market, and professional repairers must have access to all the necessary software for replacements.
Furthermore, the proposal states that operating system upgrades should be available for at least five years after the product’s release, a significant increase from the current industry standard of three upgrades. This requirement aims to prevent products from becoming obsolete quickly and supports repair, durability, and high battery performance.
One surprising aspect of the proposal is the requirement for protection against accidental falls. While it is unclear whether this means mobile phones will need to be sold with a protective shell, it is expected to be a challenge for manufacturers. Additionally, mobiles and tablets must be protected against dust and water, following the enclosure rating system described with an IP value.
The proposal also highlights the EU’s new battery directive, which will make it easier for consumers to change the battery on their electronic products themselves. However, this may pose a challenge for tablets, which are rarely protected and primarily used at home. Manufacturers will need to find a balance between creating tight devices and ensuring they are easy to open for battery replacement.
The European Parliament now has two months to review the proposal, and the rules are expected to be introduced after a transition period of 21 months. These new requirements aim to enable consumers to make sustainable choices and choose products that align with the EU’s climate and energy targets. For the first time, smartphones and tablets will receive a repairability score, providing leverage for both consumers and repairers.
Source: Press release – European Commission
How would the proposal to make mobile phones dust and waterproof contribute to increasing the longevity and durability of devices
D-party repair shops have access to the necessary information, tools, and parts to easily repair mobile phones. This provision aims to promote competition in the repair market and reduce electronic waste by extending the lifespan of devices.
Furthermore, the proposal seeks to make mobile phones more robust by requiring them to be dust and waterproof. This would provide added protection against accidental spills and drops, increasing the durability and longevity of the devices.
The EU proposal also highlights the importance of easy battery replacement. Currently, many mobile phones have sealed batteries that cannot be easily removed, leading to the disposal of the entire device when the battery fails. The new requirement aims to enable consumers to easily replace their batteries, thus reducing electronic waste and extending the life of the device.
These proposed measures align with the EU’s focus on creating a more sustainable and circular economy. By introducing energy certification, promoting repairability, and increasing durability, the EU aims to reduce electronic waste, encourage responsible consumption, and support a shift towards more sustainable practices in the mobile phone industry.
While the proposal faces further discussions and potential amendments, it reflects the EU’s determination to shape the future of mobile phone manufacturing and consumption. If these requirements are implemented, it is expected that mobile phones within the EU will become more environmentally friendly, durable, and repairable, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the planet.
The EU’s proposal for energy certification, waterproofing, durability, and repairability for mobile phones is a much-needed step towards promoting sustainability and reducing electronic waste. By holding manufacturers accountable, we can have longer-lasting, more energy-efficient devices that can be repaired instead of replaced. It’s a win for consumers and the environment.