The European Commission yesterday adopted new exemptions to its Batteries Regulation that free the Apple Watch and AirPods from having to offer user-removable and replaceable batteries.
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The reasoning largely mirrors why devices like electric toothbrushes were already exempt: Opening a compact, sealed enclosure and failing to reseal it properly could let water in and create a safety risk. Products can also qualify for exemption if their construction makes battery removal inherently dangerous, or if there is no realistic way to build in user access given current manufacturing methods.
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The iPhone was already exempt from the removability rule under the original regulation, thanks to its battery cycle life and water resistance rating.
Although the Commission has adopted the exemption, it must still undergo scrutiny by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU.
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To read the European Commission’s full delegated act, follow this link.
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