Why Smartphones Ditched Removable Batteries — and What's Changing by 2027

Executive Briefing

• Manufacturers eliminated removable batteries to enable thinner designs, premium materials, waterproofing, and features like wireless charging at competitive prices.
• Sealed batteries improved anti-theft tracking, as thieves can no longer disconnect power to disable location services.
• EU legislation passed in 2023 requires portable devices to have user-replaceable batteries using common tools, taking effect in 2027.
• Replacement batteries must remain available at least five years after a model's production ends under the new EU rules.
• Apple may claim exemption by demonstrating iPhones retain 80% battery capacity after 1,000 charge cycles, though EU approval is not guaranteed.