New smartphone support rules take effect in the EU on June 20

Starting June 20, 2025, new EU regulations for smartphones and tablets will go into effect, reported Rozetked.me. The directive from the European Commission aims to extend device lifespans and reduce electronic waste.

Devices sold after this date must meet several key requirements:
• Resistance to scratches, drops, dust, and water (minimum standard unspecified).
• Batteries must withstand at least 800 charge cycles while retaining 80% capacity.
• Spare parts must be delivered within 5–10 days and remain available for 7 years after sales end.
• Operating system updates must be provided for at least 5 years after the last unit reaches shelves.
• Repair technicians must have full access to necessary firmware and software.

In addition, all devices must now display labels showing their energy efficiency rating, estimated battery life, protection level, and repairability score.

Devices with foldable displays are exempt from these ecodesign rules. The EU expects these measures to reduce resource consumption and even slow overall device sales across the bloc.