Longer-lasting phones: the EU's repair and update rules

Why phones were replaced so often

Many people replace a phone not because it breaks, but because the battery fades, a part cannot be found or the software stops being updated. That costs money and creates a mountain of electronic waste. The European Union decided to set minimum standards for durability and repair.

What the rules require

Under ecodesign rules that started applying on 20 June 2025, new smartphones, basic mobile phones, cordless phones and tablets sold in the EU must meet requirements including:

• Software updates: operating system updates available for at least five years after the last unit of a model is sold.
• Spare parts: key parts delivered within 5 to 10 working days, for at least seven years after the model leaves the market.
• Batteries: able to manage at least 800 full charges while keeping at least 80 percent of their original capacity.
• Toughness: better resistance to drops, scratches, dust and water.
• Fair access for repairers to the software needed for repairs.

The new energy label

Phones and tablets now carry an EU energy label showing energy efficiency, battery life per charge, how many charge cycles the battery is designed for, resistance to drops, dust and water, and a repairability score from A to E. It works like the labels on fridges and washing machines, so you can compare models at a glance.

Why it matters outside the EU

Phone makers rarely design completely different models for each region. When a large market sets a rule, improvements often appear worldwide. The EU's common charger rule is a similar example. See USB-C everywhere.

What you can do

• When buying, compare how many years of updates each maker promises. See Keeping your devices updated.
• Look for the repairability score where it is shown.
• Replace a tired battery instead of the whole phone. It is often much cheaper.
• Use a case and screen protector to reduce repairs.
• When you do replace a phone, wipe it and pass it on or recycle it properly.

Tip: Many phones show battery health in Settings. If it has dropped well below 80 percent and the phone is otherwise fine, a battery replacement can give it years more life.

Do it yourself, or use a professional?

Easier repairs do not mean every repair should be done at the kitchen table. Batteries in particular can be dangerous if punctured. If you are confident, follow the maker's official repair guide and use genuine or high-quality parts. Otherwise, use an authorised repairer or a reputable independent shop. Before any repair, back up the phone, and ask whether the shop needs your passcode. Some phones offer a repair mode that keeps your personal data hidden while the technician works.

A second-hand or refurbished phone from a reputable seller is another good way to save money and waste, as long as it still has several years of software updates left.