EU Drops Battery Removal Requirement for Apple Watch and AirPods

[Samplasion]

Not to be the Devil's Advocate for Apple, but it is worth noting that parts are reasonably easily replaceable for the Airpods, only the parts are 'bulk parts'. Replace a whole earpiece, for example.

Sure, is not the same as cracking open and replacing the raw battery cell inside. But you never had to "throw out the whole device" or anything. Apple sells a replacement bud.

I don't think it is an ideal product design, but it is acceptable, I don't think the battery regulation is really justified here.

Thanks for the info! Some time ago I was looking at replacing a whole pair after briefly losing a pod, so knowing you can buy the missing part without having to replace the whole set is really a godsend

 

[CloudChief]

I’m really disappointed by this. Most phones and smartwatches have water resistance now so will be exempt.

My g shock is water resistant to 200m but has a replaceable battery…