The European Union has taken a firm stand on smartphone design by mandating that future devices must feature user-replaceable batteries. This legislation, which passed through the European Parliament and gained approval from member states, marks a significant shift in how manufacturers will approach hardware construction for phones, tablets, and other portable electronics sold within the bloc. The rules aim to extend product lifespans, reduce electronic waste, and give consumers greater control over their devices. Under the new requirements, companies will need to ensure that batteries can be removed and replaced using common household tools, without specialized equipment or technical expertise. The law sets specific timelines for compliance, with most portable devices needing to meet the standards by 2027. This gives manufacturers time to redesign their products while maintaining performance and safety standards.…