24 Dec 2022 8:47 AM GMT
Will we get back to having user-removable smartphone batteries? (Image Credit: Unsplash)
Smartphones were not always as we know them today. They’ve come a long way in terms of not just one, but several modifications and advances. One such modification was in the battery of these devices. Previously, the rear of handsets could be opened and SIM cards inserted straight into the phone. Furthermore, unlike today, the battery on these devices could be replaced if it died or had a problem. However, we no longer see this approach anymore.
Features such as water resistance have made sealed phones quite widespread, and detachable back panels and changeable batteries are becoming increasingly rare. But everything might change as the European Union is considering to switch back to replaceable batteries.
The new change is basically centred on the principles of sustainability and reduced e-waste, the same for which the EU made USB-C essential for all devices sold in the EU, with the change taking effect starting in 2024.
The EU is urging for a complete overhaul of a battery’s life cycle, including a new manufacturing process. “Collection targets are set at 45 per cent by 2023, 63 per cent by 2027, and 73 per cent by 2030 for portable batteries, and at 51 per cent by 2028 and 61 per cent by 2031 for LMT batteries,” states the regulation’s measures.
“Minimum levels of recovered cobalt (16 per cent), lead (85 per cent), lithium (six per cent), and nickel (six per cent) from manufacturing and consumer waste must be reused in new batteries.”
The EU has given firms 3.5 years to revamp battery production and supply. The European Parliament and Council reached an agreement with the EU on the new guidelines on Friday, so the process is already underway.
Most of the end-users would undoubtedly welcome the reintroduction of removable batteries in phones. However, this isn’t the case with manufacturers.
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