Nintendo Ends Console Deliveries Across Europe
On July 7 at 11:00 AM, Nintendo announced that it will cease shipments of its Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED consoles to Europe starting in early 2027. The move is a direct response to updated European Union regulations requiring that certain electronic devices allow users to replace batteries on their own. However, all three models will remain in production throughout 2026, giving consumers additional time to purchase them before the cutoff.
From the beginning of 2027, these consoles will no longer be supplied to retail stores or sold through the official Nintendo Store in regions covered by Nintendo of Europe. This affects markets including:
- European countries
- the United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Norway
- Saudi Arabia
- the United Arab Emirates
- Oman
- South Africa
Upcoming Models on the Horizon
As part of a broader transition to devices with replaceable batteries, Nintendo plans to launch the Switch 2 in the fall of 2026. This next-generation console will feature a 5172 mAh battery—slightly smaller than the current Switch model's 5220 mAh unit. Notably, the Switch 2 will be about 10 grams heavier, and each Joy-Con 2 controller will add roughly 2 grams, bringing the total weight to approximately 548 grams.
In the summer of 2026, Nintendo will begin selling Joy-Con controllers with replaceable batteries. By winter, updated versions of the Joy-Con 2, Switch 2 Pro Controller, Nintendo 64 controller for Switch, and GameCube controller for Switch 2 will hit the market. Meanwhile, the company will also discontinue sales of:
- the Switch Pro Controller
- Sega Mega Drive and SNES controllers for Switch
- the Pokémon Go Plus+ device
Through these changes, Nintendo is gradually phasing out current product versions in favor of models with user-replaceable batteries, aligning with new European legal requirements. Engadget reported these developments on July 7. This regulatory shift underscores the growing pressure on electronics manufacturers to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
Nintendo's decision reflects increasing regulatory demands on electronics makers to embrace greener, more sustainable approaches.
To comply with updated EU legislation, companies must redesign their products to improve user convenience and device longevity. Introducing new console systems with swappable batteries could also help extend product lifespans and cut down on electronic waste—an important step toward sustainability.