Guess what? The future of handheld gaming consoles is looking brighter than ever, and it’s all thanks to a new rule from the European Union. Get ready, because soon, your favourite portable gaming consoles, including the popular ones from Nintendo and Valve, could all support replaceable batteries! Yes, you heard that right, batteries you can switch out yourself.
This incredible development stems from a fresh regulation recently adopted by the European Council, first announced by Eurogamer. The primary aim behind this move? To help the environment by reducing battery waste.
As Teresa Ribera, the Spanish Minister for the Ecological Transition, aptly put it, “Batteries are key to the decarbonization process.” It’s not just about ditching old batteries; these powerhouses often contain valuable resources that can and should be reused.
Now, before you think this only applies to your gaming console, think again. The regulation covers a broad spectrum of batteries! We’re talking about everything from those waste portable batteries to electric vehicle batteries, industrial batteries (the ones that keep vehicles and machinery running), and batteries for light means of transport like electric bikes, e-mopeds, and e-scooters. It’s a battery revolution, to say the least!
So, when can you start playing the “battery swap” game?
By 2027, you’ll be able to pop out and replace your gaming console’s battery in the EU. And that’s not all; companies will be obliged to spill the beans on their batteries. You’ll get the lowdown on the carbon footprint, details about the battery’s components and recycled content, and even a handy QR code for extra info. Think of it as a “battery ID.” The labeling requirements will start in 2026, followed by the QR code requirements in 2027. This means Starting in 2026, products will need labels, and in 2027, they’ll also need QR codes.
But here’s the intriguing twist: While this fantastic regulation is EU-bound, it might just inspire console makers worldwide to follow suit. Instead of crafting separate devices for the European market, they might opt for universally replaceable batteries.
And speaking of green tech initiatives, the EU isn’t stopping there. In a move set to shake up the tech world, they’re making USB-C the standard charging cable for all devices starting in 2024. Even tech giant Apple will have to bid adieu to its proprietary Lightning cable and embrace the USB-C era.
In summary, the gaming world is in for a game-changing battery upgrade, thanks to the EU’s push for sustainability. Get ready to keep your gaming adventures alive with easily replaceable batteries, and who knows, maybe other regions will soon follow suit. Plus, that USB-C revolution is just around the corner, changing the way we power our devices. Exciting times ahead for tech enthusiasts!
