Nintendo has announced new hardware to align with fresh legislation from the European Union, aimed at reducing the environmental impact, disposal, and recycling of batteries.
As such, Nintendo is making changes that will result in it becoming much easier to replace batteries in the Nintendo Switch 2 console, and potentially Joy-Con controllers.
New EU Legislation Leads to Nintendo Changes
Announced by Nintendo, and spotted by Digital Foundry, current products with a ‘BEE’ model number will receive ‘OSM’ numbers, which include the Nintendo Switch 2 console, and possibly the Joy-Con controllers.
The aim of the legislation is to reduce e-waste and extend the life of battery-powered products, which may otherwise end in the trash due to deteriorating batteries and, crucially in Nintendo’s case, the lack of repairability.
As a result, the OSM model of the Switch 2 will ensure that heat guns or battery solvents are not required to free the battery, and that no custom screws are used to hold the case together.
It’s not confirmed whether the same rules will apply to the Joy-Con controllers, but Nintendo may be required to make adjustments.
Additionally, Nintendo has an obligation to supply replacement batteries for up to five years after products are discontinued, and it opens the door for third-party manufacturers to potentially compete with Nintendo by offering their own replacement batteries.
Digital Foundry also details that it could result in higher-capacity batteries becoming available, extending mobile play time, so it’s a change that is definitely going to help consumers.
What do you think about these Nintendo Switch 2 changes? Share your thoughts in the Insider Gaming Discord.
For more Nintendo, read claims about a new Nintendo Direct coming next week, and read about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4’s launch on Nintendo Switch 2.
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