Nintendo will release new Switch 2 hardware versions in the European Union with user-replaceable batteries by February 18, 2027, in order to comply with upcoming EU Right to Repair regulations [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The regulation requires certain electronics to have easily replaceable batteries by end users during the product lifetime [1, 2, 3, 4, 6].
The EU-compliant Switch 2 models will carry product numbers beginning with “BEE” and include an additional “OSM” code on packaging to identify these variants separately for regulatory reasons. Nintendo said future compliant products with “BEE” model numbers will be designated by the “OSM” code on packaging [2, 3, 4, 6].
The user-replaceable batteries will appear on Switch 2 handheld consoles and are expected to extend to Pro Controllers and Joy-Cons, all under the “BEE” product code, although this remains less certain [1, 2, 3, 6]. Currently, replacing batteries in Switch 2 devices requires specialized tools and is complicated, so the new feature will improve convenience considerably [2, 3, 5].
Nintendo confirmed the EU-only release of these compliant devices, with no current plans to sell them in the US or other regions [2, 5, 6]. The company also aims to meet other EU requirements covering packaging waste, hazardous substances, ecodesign, radio equipment, and low voltage directives [1].
Nintendo originally launched the Switch 2 in 2025, featuring a larger screen, improved storage, and better performance compared to the original Switch console [6]. In May 2026, Nintendo raised the EU price of the Switch 2 from €470 to €500, citing rising memory costs and market changes [6].
Nintendo said, "Nintendo is implementing measures to comply with these requirements by preparing versions of products to meet the Regulation" [1]. It added, "For current products with model numbers starting with ‘BEE,’ future compliant versions will have unique model numbers and the additional code ‘OSM’ visible on the packaging, designating them as separate products for regulatory purposes" [4].
The EU Right to Repair Directive was passed by the European Parliament in April 2024, requiring easier repairability and user-replaceable batteries in certain products [2]. The regulation takes effect on February 18, 2027, making this the deadline for Nintendo’s compliant Switch 2 release in the region [1, 2, 3, 4, 6].
