IN BRIEF: While the Nintendo Switch 2's first year on the market was by all accounts successful, critics have had some nitpicks about its hardware, such as the blurry screen and difficult-to-replace battery. Recent reports indicate that Nintendo aims to address these issues with new units expected to roll out this year. However, the company confirmed that it will stop shipping the original Switch to Europe in 2027.
Nintendo's UK support site has confirmed that Switch 2 consoles and controllers sold in Europe after fall 2026 will feature new battery configurations. While functionality and battery life will not change significantly, complying with new EU regulations will make the batteries easier to remove and replace.
Nikkei initially reported the company's plans in March, but Nintendo only recently outlined them. The affected products – the Switch 2, Joy-Cons, Pro Controller and Nintendo Online retro controllers – will be a few grams heavier and likely have the same battery life as before. However, the change might create a market for high-capacity third-party batteries.
The update was prompted by EU regulations set to take effect next year, aimed at reducing e-waste by ensuring that dead batteries don't automatically send electronics into landfills. Unfortunately, Nintendo will not update the original Switch to meet the new requirements, and the older handheld will exit circulation in Europe after February 2027, close to its 10th anniversary. In a statement to IGN, the company confirmed that it will continue shipping the original Switch elsewhere.
