Unveiled: Energy Efficiency Labels for Smartphones and Tablets in the EU
Mandatory Energy Rating for Smartphones and Tablets Introduced by EU - Mandatory energy labels for smartphones and tablets to be implemented by EU soon
Starting from June 20, 2025, smartphones and tablets sold in the EU will don a new energy label. Brussels officials believe this move will empower consumers to buy more sustainably and make informed choices. The label showcases the energy efficiency of the device and also provides insights into its lifespan, battery durability, and repairability[1].
What to Expect on the Energy Label
Inside the packaging of your next smartphone or tablet, you'll find an energy efficiency label with the following details:
- Energy Efficiency Class: A rating from A (efficiency champion) to G (inefficiency king).
- Battery Life: Expressed in hours and minutes.
- Battery Lifespans: Number of charge-discharge cycles the battery can sustain.
- Drop Resistance Rating: Graded from A to E, reflecting the device's ability to endure accidental drops.
- Repairability Score: Ranges from A to E, indicating how easily the device can be fixed.
- Water and Dust Protection: (IP Rating) Showing the device’s resistance against dust and water ingress[3][4][5].
These details will give consumers a transparent, standardized perspective on energy consumption, durability, and repairability[1].
The Supporting Act: Eco-Design Regulations
These new energy labels won't stand alone. Marketed smartphones, tablets, feature phones, and cordless phones in the EU must adhere to additional eco-design regulations:
- Durability: Smartphones and tablets should be built to withstand accidental drops, while also offering robust protection against dust and water damage.
- Repairability: Manufacturers are tasked with keeping spare parts readily available and designing devices that facilitate easy repairs.
- Battery Life: Long-lasting batteries that retain capacity over time is a must.
- Software Updates: Manufacturers must provide extended software support to ensure the devices stay secure and functional for a longer period[2][4][5].
These measures aim to combat electronic waste, keeping devices functional, and maintainable for an extended period[1][2][3][4][5].
European Product Registry for Compliance Checks
For regulatory oversight, manufacturers must register their products with the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL)[5].
In a nutshell, the EU is requiring smartphones and tablets to carry energy efficiency labels that highlight battery life, durability, repairability, and more. To further endorse sustainability, eco-design rules have been introduced to ensure durability, repairability, long-lasting batteries, and software updates[1][2][3][4][5].
- In anticipation of the new community policy, manufacturers may need to revise their employment policies to ensure the production of energy-efficient smartphones and tablets adheres to the eco-design regulations, particularly in regards to durability, repairability, battery life, and software updates.
- As the use of gadgets like smartphones and tablets becomes more prevalent, the implementation of energy efficiency labels could influence the demand for specific models, potentially prompting employers to alter their compensation policies in favor of employees who prioritize energy-efficient gadgets, contributing to a greener and more sustainable work environment.
