A new draft from the European Commission in Brussels stipulates that spare parts for the iPhone and other smartphones must be easily available to users.
As part of an ongoing investigation into electronic waste and other problems, the EU Commission has now adopted a series of measures proposed, which “establishes ecodesign requirements for mobile phones”. According to Declarations According to the Financial Times, the proposals stipulate that around 15 different components must be available for at least five years after the smartphone's launch. In addition, the batteries must be able to withstand at least 500 full charges without falling below 83% of their capacity. The draft states:
EU: “Devices are often replaced prematurely by users”
The sharp increase in demand for smartphones and tablets, coupled with their increased functionality, has led to an increased demand for the energy and materials needed to manufacture these devices on the EU market, accompanied by an increase in the associated environmental impact. In addition, devices are often replaced prematurely by users and are not sufficiently reused or recycled at the end of their life, resulting in a waste of resources.
That's why the European Commission wants to set standards for sustainability, including making spare parts available for repairs. It also wants manufacturers to introduce an energy efficiency label, similar to the one already on household appliances such as dishwashers. The full proposal was published on August 31, 2022. The European Commission is asking for feedback on the issue for four weeks. In addition, it hopes that the proposals will be adopted in the fourth quarter of 2022. Criticism of the proposal says that it will generate more waste and manufacturers may have an oversupply of spare parts to dispose of. In addition, the mandate will be tougher for Android manufacturers that support devices for three years or less.
iPhone & more: Apple already meets standards
Apple has not commented on this specific proposal but has already taken steps to ensure compliance. The company recently introduced its Self Service Repair program for iPhones. But Apple has also long met the proposed standard of supplying components for five years after a smartphone's launch. Cupertino continues to supply components for five years after the device has ceased to be sold, which can be one or more years later. Apple refers to the devices in this category as "vintage" and, depending on stock levels in Apple Stores or local regulations, the company may continue to service the devices for two years. Seven years after the last sale, the devices are considered "obsolete" and can no longer be repaired. (Photo by rarrarorro / Bigstockphoto)
