From June 20, 2025, all smartphones and tablets sold in the European Union will have to carry a new energy label. This initiative aims to inform consumers about the energy efficiency, durability and repairability of the devices they buy, while encouraging manufacturers to design increasingly environmentally-friendly products.
This measure stems from a European Commission regulation dated June 16, 2023. It is part of the wider framework of the European Green Deal, which seeks to promote a more circular and sustainable economy.
As detailed by the EU, this energy label will display a host of key information, starting with the smartphone or tablet's energy efficiency rating, from A (best performance) to G (worst performance). On the same label, consumers will be able to find the estimated battery life (in hours and minutes) and the battery endurance, or its expected lifespan in number of charge cycles.
The label will also specify the device's durability, resistance to dust and water, and repairability index, ranging from A (highly repairable) to E (not very repairable). Finally, a QR code will give consumers access to an online database containing detailed information on the product and its battery composition.
The aim of this label is to inform consumers about the performance and durability of the device they wish to purchase. Ultimately, the idea is to reduce the environmental footprint of these devices by encouraging the purchase of energy-efficient, easy-to-repair models. The label will be required for all smartphones and tablets sold in the EU from June 20. – AFP Relaxnews