New EU rules on electronic devices have been approved
On Friday June 16, the European Council and the European Parliament have approved new rules for mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices. Products bought in the EU must now be more energy efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly.
At the same time, the Commission has proposed additional rules to ensure that consumers have access to all the information they need to make informed and sustainable purchasing decisions.
The rules should also benefit consumers. Information on energy efficiency, battery life, dust and water resistance should also be provided. There should also be information on the product's resistance to accidental drops, as well as its estimated repair time. These changes are designed to empower consumers.
Restrictions will also be introduced for suppliers. For example, the battery will need to be able to withstand at least 800 fully charged and discharged cycles and retain at least 80% of its capacity. Phone manufacturers will also be required to make spare parts available to repairers within 5 to 10 working days and for up to seven years after the product model has been discontinued.
Annoying constant updates — will also have to go. According to the new rules, critical updates that make a phone obsolete, even if it's still usable, need to be released at least 5 years after the model was launched. Repairers will now be allowed to access all software and spare parts for the models they sell.
As a result of these measures, experts estimate that savings of up to 14 terawatt hours of primary energy will be possible as early as 2030. The Commission's labelling proposal will now be submitted to the European Parliament and Council for adoption within two months. The measures will be in force within 21 months of the entry into force of the two pieces of legislation.
