Nintendo confirms EU-exclusive Switch 2 with replaceable batteries
The Japanese firm will introduce a region-specific variant featuring swappable power units to meet European Union regulations, distinguishing it from the standard global release.
Nintendo has confirmed it is developing a version of the Switch 2 console equipped with swappable batteries to comply with the European Union’s 2023 right-to-repair directive. The EU-compliant model, identified by the "BEE" code prefix and "OSM" packaging marking, will feature unique model numbers and is expected to be sold exclusively in the region. The new regulation, effective from 18 February 2027, requires batteries for certain appliances to be easily replaceable by users.
Nintendo released the standard Switch 2 in 2025 and recently raised its EU price to €500. The company stated it is "implementing measures to comply" and "preparing versions of products" to meet the 2023 EU "right-to-repair" policy. Consoles with swappable batteries will have unique model numbers and the code "OSM" visible on the packaging.
They will be sold as separate products for regulatory purposes, which likely means Nintendo won't be selling them outside the region. Nintendo did not mention products with the "HAC" product code, indicating no plans to release Switch 1 consoles under this new compliance framework.
The EU regulation mandates that batteries for "certain appliances" sold in the EU must be easily replaceable by users anytime, starting from 18 February 2027. The "BEE" code prefix is used for the Switch 2, as well as its hardware, games, and accessories.
Nintendo released the standard Switch 2 in 2025, which features a larger screen than the first iteration, larger base storage, and significantly better performance. The company recently raised the price of the Switch 2 in the EU from €470 to €500 in May, citing rising memory costs and other "changes in market conditions."
The company is likely moving towards phasing out the older Switch 1 console. Nintendo has yet to reveal when it will start selling the new Switch 2 variant and for how much.
