The new EU-compliant Switch 2 is now shipping to retailers. This version is designed to meet the EU's 'Right to Repair' directive and new battery regulations, which require battery-powered devices to be more accessible and replaceable by users.
A teardown comparison by YouTube channel Nintendúo reveals that the new model features a slightly smaller battery, with a capacity reduction of approximately 1% or 48mAh. The overall weight of the console, including Joy-Cons, has increased by 14 grams.
Key structural changes include the removal of warranty stickers that previously covered screws in the Joy-Con rails, making internal components more accessible. The heat shield has also been redesigned; it no longer covers the battery area, and a thicker insulating material now wraps the battery externally to protect it from heat.
The new version is identified by an OSM product code and serial numbers starting with HLE for the European market. While the console is now available, design adjustments for Joy-Con and Switch 2 Pro controllers will follow later this year, with N64 and GameCube controllers updated by early 2027.
Nintendo will sell replacement batteries and toolkits containing detailed removal and replacement instructions separately. The company is gradually replacing old versions with the new model through retailers, meaning consumers cannot actively choose between the versions at purchase.