In recent weeks, claims have been circulating on the Internet again that Apple will have to start selling iPhones with easily replaceable batteries from 2027 due to new European Union rules. Some posts even claim that European iPhones will get a removable back cover similar to old mobile phones. However, nothing of the sort is planned and the change will not affect this generation either iPhone 18.
Apple is set to introduce a new series this fall iPhone 18, which will include, among other things, models iPhone 18 Pro a iPhone 18 Pro MaxThe arrival of the first foldable is also expected. iPhone, which is often referred to as iPhone UltraAlthough the new European rules are fast approaching, none of these phones should have an easily removable back cover or a battery that can be removed in seconds.
The European Union is really changing the rules for batteries
There is one important piece of truth in the whole report. The European Union has indeed adopted new rules regarding smartphone batteries.onemobile phonesoneand tablets. From 2027, manufacturers are to enable easier battery replacement so that the user does not have to use specialized tools or undergo an unreasonably complex service intervention.
This is where the claim that phones with removable back covers will return to Europe originated. However, the European rules contain an important exception that applies to modern premium smartphones.
Apple already meets the conditions of the exception
A manufacturer is not required to offer an easily removable battery if their device meets the specified requirements for battery life and water and dust resistance. The battery must have at least 83% of its original capacity after 500 full charge cycles and at least 80% after 1,000 cycles. The phone must also meet miniMinimum protection level IP67.
Modern iPhones meet or exceed these requirements. Apple therefore, they do not need to fundamentally change the design of their phones or prepare special European versions with removable backs.
iPhone 18 Pro will not experience any revolution because of the EU
This is important news, especially in relation to this year's generation. iPhone 18. Apple can continue the current design solution also for models iPhone 18 Pro a iPhone 18 Pro Maxwithout having to add a removable battery cover due to European regulations.
The same should also apply to other phones that Apple will be introduced this year. If they meet the requirements for battery life and durability, the new European regulations will not be a reason to fundamentally change their design.
Pro Apple It is important to maintain the current solution. The tightly sealed design makes it easier to achieve high water and dust resistance while also allowing for more efficient use of the limited space inside the phone.
The reason why the topic has resurfaced in recent days is the Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo is preparing a modified version of the console for the European market that will offer a user-replaceable battery. However, the Switch 2 is subject to different European rules than smartphones and tablets. That is why the situation surrounding the console cannot be automatically applied to Apple, Samsung or Google.
Old phones with removable covers won't return due to EU
So iPhone owners don't have to prepare for the return of the design familiar from mobile phones from twenty years ago. Apple will not have to start selling European iPhones with a plastic removable cover or a battery that can be easily removed by hand in 2027.
If they will iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and other new models meet specified requirements for battery life and water and dust resistance, Apple can continue in virtually the same way as before. Viral claims about special European iPhoneThe removable battery laws are based on the actual legislation, but they ignore the most important part of it – the exception that modern iPhones meet.
