As of today 20 June 2025, the European Union introduces mandatory energy labels for smartphones and (slate) tablets. The new rules are part of a broader framework of ecodesign regulations aimed at increasing device durability, repairability and transparency. The regulation applies to “newly placed” products on the EU market. However, the European Commission does not clarify whether this includes refurbished or used devices—raising questions for refurbishers and resellers of used devices. Are local EU trade-ins exempt, similar to the USB-C rule that applies only to imports after 28 December 2024? Uncertainty will harm the European secondary market.
The label offers more insight
The new EU Energy Label is not just about electricity consumption. It includes data on battery endurance, cycle durability, drop resistance, repairability and dust or water protection. Devices are rated on an A to G scale for energy efficiency and on an A to E scale for repairability.
Ecodesign requirements now also in force
Alongside the labelling obligation, Regulation (EU) 2023/1670 imposes minimum standards for hardware and software. Batteries must maintain at least 80 % capacity after 800 cycles. OS updates must be offered for at least five years. Spare parts should be delivered within ten working days. Repair tools and software must be made available to independent repairers.
Concerns raised by industry voices
Claire Darmon, Head of Public Affairs at Swappie, welcomes Ecodesign: “This is a landmark step toward more repairable devices and a more open repair market.” Yet she adds: “How this plays out in practice remains to be seen—especially regarding spare part pricing and the persistence of serialisation.”
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
