Starting June 20, all smartphones and tablets sold in the EU must display battery life labels, as part of new regulations promoting durability, repairability, and software support.

EU Sets New Standards for Smartphone Transparency


In a sweeping new directive aimed at bolstering consumer rights and environmental responsibility, the European Union has announced that all smartphones and tablets sold across member states must clearly display battery life labels from June 20 onwards. The regulation is part of the EU’s wider commitment to energy efficiency and product longevity, placing increased pressure on manufacturers to meet high standards of transparency, durability, and repairability.

Smartphone Battery Life Labels Become Mandatory


From June 20, mobile phones and tablets sold within the EU will be required to feature a prominent energy label detailing battery performance, lifespan, and efficiency. The move applies to all wireless phones — including mobile, satellite, and even cordless landline devices — irrespective of their operating systems or internet capabilities.

The regulation also extends to tablets with screens ranging from 7 to 17.4 inches. However, devices with flexible main screens are exempt from this obligation, as are phones and tablets released prior to the implementation date.

The newly introduced battery life label is designed to provide users with a clearer understanding of how long a device will function efficiently before requiring a charge or replacement, empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Five Pillars of Ecodesign Compliance


The regulation outlines five core ecodesign criteria that manufacturers must adhere to:

  1. Durability: Devices must be resilient against accidental falls, dust, and water damage.

  2. Battery Endurance: Batteries should last at least 800 full charging cycles while maintaining 80% of their original capacity.

  3. Repairability: Manufacturers must ensure the feasibility of repairs, including the supply of key spare parts within 5–10 business days.

  4. Long-Term Support: Essential parts must be available for up to seven years after the product’s sale ends, and software updates must continue for at least five years.

  5. Open Access to Software: Independent repair professionals must be granted non-discriminatory access to essential firmware and diagnostics tools.

These criteria aim to curb the culture of premature device replacement, extending the useful lifespan of electronics and reducing e-waste across Europe.

A Step Toward Smarter, More Sustainable Technology

Labeling Change to Impact Manufacturers Worldwide
The introduction of mandatory battery life labels in smartphones marks another step in the EU’s broader digital sustainability agenda. Manufacturers hoping to access the lucrative European market will now have to meet more stringent performance and transparency standards.

With the new rules, the EU hopes to not only protect consumers but also push the global tech industry toward more sustainable practices. By mandating longer-lasting batteries, easier repairs, and longer software support lifespans, the regulation is poised to redefine expectations for mobile technology — not just in Europe, but globally.

As June 20 approaches, both consumers and manufacturers are bracing for a new era of accountability in mobile innovation — where a device’s lifespan begins with what’s written on the label.