EU Rules Won't Force Apple to Launch iPhone with Removable Battery by 2027

Recent rumors claimed that starting in 2027, Apple would be required to sell iPhones with user-replaceable batteries in Europe. These claims stem from new European Union regulations set to take effect in 2027, which address the right to replace batteries in mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. While the regulations do mandate that batteries must be removable and replaceable, the official documents include significant exceptions. These exceptions allow manufacturers to comply without completely redesigning their devices. Consequently, there is currently no indication that Apple will need to reintroduce a removable back cover or enable users to swap batteries quickly at home without tools or professional assistance. Overall, the EU rules are expected to impact repairability and battery replacement practices, but they do not clearly require a fundamental redesign of the iPhone.