Since this is a translation of an overseas article, there may be mistranslations.
https://hothardware.com/news/eu-battery-rules-trigger-hardware-redesign-nintendo-switch-2
EU Battery Regulations Trigger Hardware Redesign for Nintendo Switch 2
To comply with European Union (EU) directives and regulations regarding batteries, Nintendo has confirmed that it will modify its Switch 2 handheld console for the region to make the battery easily replaceable. But don't hold your breath too long for a redesigned Switch 2 to hit US or other markets.
Nintendo's hardware refresh is a direct response to new EU regulations coming into effect on February 28, 2027. Part of the regulation changes require that batteries in certain electronic devices be easily replaceable by the end user during the product's lifecycle. The current version of the Switch 2 doesn't meet this requirement, but that won't be the case for long.
Nintendo stated on its website that "it is taking measures to comply with these requirements by preparing a product version that meets the regulations."
Nintendo added, "For current products with model numbers starting with 'BEE,' the future compliant version will have a unique model number and an additional code 'OSM' on the packaging to be designated as a separate product for regulatory purposes."
While not definitive, Nintendo's statement that the compliant version will have a unique model number suggests that two different designs will be maintained. This means only models shipped and sold within EU territory will have an easier battery replacement process than the current model. Nintendo has made no mention of design changes for the Switch 1 lineup.
Nintendo launched the Switch 2 almost a year ago. At the time, the base console was available for $449.99 (€469.99 in Europe), and the Mario Kart World bundle version was priced at $499.99 (€509.99 in Europe). Recently, Nintendo announced that it will discontinue the Mario Kart World bundle and increase the price to $499.99 (€499.99 in Europe) starting in September.
Currently, a limited-time "Choose Your Own Bundle" version is available for $499.99 (€499.99 in Europe), allowing buyers to choose one of three full game downloads: Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bonanza, or Pokémon Pokétopia. It remains to be seen if this new bundle will continue after the price increase takes effect.
Source • iFixIt
Regarding battery replacement, while it is technically possible to do it yourself, it's not necessarily easy. iFixIt, a disassembly specialist media outlet, has published a guide to walk users through the process, which requires adhesive and thermal putty for proper execution. With Nintendo releasing the redesigned Switch 2 consoles, this will likely change at least in Europe.
▶ Original Source: https://hothardware.com/news/eu-battery-rules-trigger-hardware-redesign-nintendo-switch-2
