On October 22, 2026, the EU issued Regulation (EU) 2026/1770, which exempts portable batteries from the requirements for removability and replaceability. This regulation will take effect twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, i.e., November 11, 2026. This time, wearable devices will be added to the existing category (a) exemptions, category (b) exemptions will remain unchanged, and the following six categories of exemptions have been added:

• (c) wearable devices for which the safety, durability, or water resistance may be compromised by user access to the battery and which:
  • (i) due to their nature, size or form, are considered to be too small to allow the end-user to properly and safely handle a battery replacement; or
  • (ii) rely on a compact, sealed enclosure to maintain functional integrity, including protection against dust, and shock;
• (d) until 31 July 2030, electric toys that incorporate rechargeable batteries. when, due to the nature or size of the toy, the derogation is necessary to ensure the safety of the toy when used in accordance with Article 10(2) of Directive 2009/48/EC;
• (e) wireless thermometer probes specifically designed for food contact during food preparation processes;
• (f) products falling within the scope of Article 1 of Directive 2014/34/EU;
• (g) on-body delivery systems specifically designed for the subcutaneous administration of medicinal products;
• (h) telematics devices intended for roof-mounted installation in agricultural and construction machinery and designed to be exposed to harsh vibrations, dust and wet conditions during their intended use.

Click this link to view the original (EU) 2026/1770 text.