The European Commission has published a bill that would require smartphone manufacturers to produce repair parts for five years and install durable batteries.
European Commission
Companies will have to supply service centers with batteries, screens, back covers and trays for SIM cards for 5 years after the device goes on sale.
Thus, lawmakers want to increase the repairability of gadgets and reduce the amount of electronic waste.
New Regulations for Manufacturers of Smartphones
If manufacturers fail to produce batteries within five years, they will have to install improved batteries and conduct a series of tests. Companies must guarantee that the battery’s condition reaches 80 percent after 1,000 charging cycles. They will also be banned from releasing firmware updates that negatively affect battery life.
The requirements will not apply to smartphones with flexible screens and secure phones that are designed to work in extreme conditions.
New Energy Efficiency Label for Smartphones and Tablets
In addition, the bill would introduce a new energy efficiency label for smartphones and tablets. It will include the likely battery life, information about the device’s protection against water and dust, and assess the gadget’s resistance to accidental falls.
