The European Union is introducing a new labelling system for smartphones and tablets. As of 20 June 2025, all new phone and tablet models to be sold in Europe will be required to include a special label on the box with information such as energy efficiency, battery performance, software support and repairability.

EU introduces new labelling requirement for phones

The new practice shows that energy efficiency labelling will not be limited to products such as white goods. With this labelling system developed for smart devices, it is aimed that users will be able to make more informed decisions when choosing products.

According to the criteria announced by the European Commission, manufacturers must produce devices that are resistant to impacts, dust and water. In addition, the batteries used in the devices will be required to maintain at least 80 per cent of their capacity even after at least 800 full charge-discharge cycles.

One of the important items of the labelling system will be repairability. Manufacturers are required to provide spare parts for seven years after a device goes off sale and must be able to provide these parts within 5 to 10 working days at the latest.

In addition, after-sales software update support will also be mandatory. The requirement for devices to receive updates for at least five years after they leave the market requires manufacturers to offer long-term support.

This excludes products that went on sale before 2025. It is also expected that this new labelling system will not be limited to the European market, but will become the standard worldwide.