Nintendo has announced that a new version of the Switch 2 console, featuring a replaceable battery, will be available to consumers in the European Union.

In a recent announcement, Nintendo unveiled an updated version of the Switch 2 console in Europe. This revision is made to adhere to European legislation mandating replaceable batteries.

The company detailed that the Switch 2 and its Joy-Cons, identified by model numbers starting with BEE, will receive new model identifiers to meet the regulatory requirements. This change allows players to exchange batteries in both the console and its controllers.

This move follows a 2023 European Union regulation calling for battery accessibility to consumers by the year 2027. The legislation demands that batteries be removable using either standard or specially designed tools, accompanied by comprehensive safety and instruction manuals.

Earlier in the year, there were reports about Nintendo's plans to launch an EU-specific version of the Switch 2 featuring a replaceable battery.

Moreover, the EU has set environmental goals to mitigate the negative impacts of batteries during their entire lifecycle. Plans include waste collection targets of 63% by 2027 and 73% by 2030 for portable batteries, while lithium batteries must reach recovery goals of 50% by 2027 and 80% by 2030.

It is presently unclear how the revised Switch 2 will affect customers in Europe who have previously purchased the console, as well as any potential ramifications for warranties. Some reports propose that similar updates could be considered in Japan and the U.S. should consumer laws evolve in these regions.