The European Commission proposed on Friday an energy label for smartphones and tablets, which provides that producers provide clear information on the energy efficiency of batteries, their lifespan and protection against dust and water.
Once the initiative has been adopted, these devices would thus be the first on the European market to display a repairability score.
According to the Executive, which will integrate this device into the existing energy labeling rules, the labeling of these appliances, based on the well-known scale from A to G, should help the consumer to make “better informed choices and to consume sustainably”.
According to eco-design requirements – already stipulated, but not yet in force – batteries must withstand at least 800 charge-discharge cycles while retaining at least 80% of their original capacity.
Manufacturers will also have to guarantee a capacity to supply repairers with the main spare parts within five to ten working days, and this up to seven years after the end of the sale of the model. They will also have to offer software support for at least five years.
The Member States (Council) and the European Parliament now have two months to examine the proposal. If they do not object, the text can be formally approved.
A transition period of 21 months is also planned.