Overview
- Nintendo confirmed Thursday that it will produce EU-specific Switch 2 hardware with user-replaceable batteries to comply with the EU Batteries Regulation that takes effect on February 18, 2027.
- Compliant units will carry unique model numbers and an additional 'OSM' code on packaging so they are listed as separate products for regulatory tracking.
- Nintendo has not disclosed the exact mechanical changes that make batteries removable, nor has it said how or when replacement cells will be sold to consumers.
- Controllers and other accessories that share the Switch 2 'BEE' model family may need revisions too, but Nintendo has not confirmed which peripherals will be updated.
- The change reflects a wider EU push to cut electronic waste and could create region-specific SKUs, with unclear effects on pricing, inventory and whether the OSM models will appear outside Europe.