Nintendo has officially confirmed a new model of the Nintendo Switch 2 that allows users to replace the battery themselves, a move made in response to EU regulations.

Nintendo officially confirmed it is preparing a new Nintendo Switch 2 model with a user-replaceable battery for the European market. An update regarding EU regulatory compliance has been added to Nintendo's official website, detailing the company's response to Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, which governs batteries and waste batteries.

The regulation mandates that batteries built into devices sold within the EU must be easily replaceable by the user at any point during the product's lifespan. Nintendo stated it is preparing a product that meets these requirements.

The regulation takes effect on February 18, 2027. The provision requiring user-replaceable batteries becomes enforceable in February 2027, and Nintendo is expected to supply the EU with Switch two units featuring replaceable batteries by that date.

The new model will be distinguished not by its design or performance, but by its model number. Nintendo explained that while current products use model numbers starting with 'BEE,' future versions that comply with the regulation will feature a unique model number and an 'OSM' code on the packaging to distinguish them as separate products for regulatory purposes. 'BEE' is the code used for the Switch 2 and its ecosystem devices; for reference, the original Switch used the 'HAC' code. In short, 'OSM' serves as the identifier for the EU-exclusive replaceable-battery model.

Since 'BEE' refers to the entire device ecosystem rather than just the console, it is possible that Joy-Cons or other battery-powered peripherals may also be included.

Furthermore, the 'OSM' code was spotted earlier this year, fueling rumors about new hardware. At the time, its identity was unclear, leading to speculation about a Nintendo Switch 2 Lite or an OLED model. However, Nintendo's official documentation has clarified that it is a regulatory compliance model rather than a new form factor. The only confirmed change so far is the battery replaceability; it was not specified whether the battery life or capacity itself would differ.

Meanwhile, it is considered unlikely that this change will be extended to regions outside of Europe.