EU Exempts Smartwatches and Electric Toys From 2027 Repair Rules as Safety Risks Override Battery Access
Updated
Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Jul 15
EU Exempts Smartwatches and Electric Toys From 2027 Repair Rules as Safety Risks Override Battery Access
3 articles · Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Jul 15
Summary
Starting Feb. 18, 2027, the EU will still require replaceable batteries in smartphones and tablets, but electric toys and wearable devices are now carved out of the repair regime.
The European Commission said end-user opening of products such as smartwatches, fitness trackers and smart glasses poses safety risks that make consumer repairs unrealistic.
That exemption means devices including Apple Watch, Fitbit trackers and Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses will not have to offer easy battery replacement, preserving sealed designs.
The broader Right to Repair rules are already reshaping other electronics—replacement batteries must be sold for at least five years—while easily repairable wearables are likely to remain uncommon.