Although it’s been less than a year since the Switch 2 launched, Nintendo might already be preparing a revised version of the console — and this time, the upgrade might have less to do with performance and more to do with regulations.
According to a report from Nikkei, in order to comply with upcoming European Union right-to-repair rules, the company is working on a new model that would make the console’s battery user-replaceable. If accurate, it would mark a significant shift from both the original Switch and current Switch 2 design. In those models, batteries are sealed inside the device and require tools to access.
The change appears to be driven primarily by Europe, but it may not stay there. The report suggests Nintendo could roll out similar designs globally if consumer demand for repairable tech continues to grow. This is something we’ve already seen influence other companies.
Nintendo Switch 2. Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
Apple, for example, moved its iPhones to USB-C following EU regulations, despite initially limiting the change to Europe. In practice, that ended up becoming a global standard. Nintendo could follow a similar path here, rather than creating separate hardware for different regions.
Right now, it’s unclear how this updated Switch 2 would be positioned. Nintendo could treat it as a quiet revision, similar to the 2019 refresh of the original Switch, which improved battery life without changing the name or it could launch as a more visible hardware update.
Either way, the shift toward a replaceable battery would be a notable one. It would make the console easier to maintain long-term. Additionally, it could help extend its lifespan, especially as handheld gaming devices tend to see heavy daily use.
Do keep in mind that Nintendo hasn’t officially commented yet, so for now this remains a rumour – but it’s one that points to how much influence right-to-repair laws are starting to have on mainstream hardware design.
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