EU Introduces New Labels for Smartphones and Tablets
The EU tends to overregulate everything, but sometimes, like a blind chicken hitting a grain, they do something good.
Starting June 20, 2025, the European Union will enforce new rules that could significantly change how consumers choose smartphones, tablets, and wireless landline phones. All new devices sold in the EU will be required to carry clear labels indicating how easy they are to repair, how energy efficient they are, and how resistant they are to physical damage.
These labels will resemble the ones already seen on household appliances, with ratings from A to G. The labels will provide information such as:
- Battery lifespan and charging cycles
- Water and dust resistance (IP rating)
- Repairability and physical durability
Interestingly, devices with foldable displays are temporarily excluded from the regulation, while Windows-based tablets fall under separate rules for laptops.
In addition to labels, manufacturers will also need to meet new eco-design requirements, including:
- Mandatory availability of spare parts to encourage repairs
- Batteries must retain at least 80% capacity after 800 charging cycles
- Devices must be more resistant to scratches and drops compared to current minimum standards
- Faster software updates: Android device makers will have up to six months to deliver updates after Google releases the source code of a new version
With these changes, the EU aims to empower consumers, promote sustainability, reduce electronic waste, and give buyers a clearer idea of what they’re purchasing. This move could significantly impact how manufacturers design and support their devices moving forward. At least, we’ll get the latest OS updates much quicker.
