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Nintendo Reportedly Prepping EU-Only Switch 2 With User‑Replaceable Batteries

A Nikkei report says the Europe-focused revision is meant to meet right-to-repair battery rules that begin taking effect through 2026 and 2027.

Overview

  • The report states Nintendo will revise the Switch 2 so owners can swap the console’s battery and the Joy-Con 2 batteries without specialist tools.
  • Nikkei links the move to Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, which requires portable batteries to be readily removable and replaceable by end users.
  • Coverage notes the model is targeted at Europe first, with similar changes in Japan or the United States only considered if laws or consumer pressure grow.
  • Nintendo has not confirmed the revision and no launch window or pricing has been announced, though articles describe the EU release as coming “soon.”
  • Outlets highlight possible knock-on effects such as a Europe-specific SKU and manufacturing costs, with some speculation about the original Switch’s EU availability later in the decade.