Getting Your Tech Essentials Labeled: The EU Energy Revolution
Mobile Phone Repair Efficiency Evaluated under EU Energy Label Standards
Brussels (dpa) - Say goodbye to constantly replacing your phone every time it breaks! Often, these devices can just be repaired. But is it as simple as it seems? To help you make smart choices when purchasing tech products, new smartphones, tablets, and even feature phones sold in the EU starting right now will be labeled with new EU energy labels, just like you'd see on washing machines, light bulbs, or TVs. Here's a quick rundown of what's changing:
What Does It All Mean?
These labels indicate the energy efficiency of the device, ranging from A (dark green) for very efficient products to G (red) for less efficient ones. The label also shows the device's battery life after a full charge (hours and minutes) and the number of charge cycles the battery can handle before it retains only 80% of its original capacity. The device's robustness against falls and repairability are rated on a scale from A to E, with higher grades suggesting greater sturdiness and ease of repair.
The label also includes a scale for the device's protection against dust (0 to 6) and moisture (0 to 8). A device with a "68" rating offers the finest protection.
Finding Your Label
Retailers and vendors must ensure that the label is clearly visible and easily accessible, both online and in-store. The German Environmental Aid announced they'll be conducting random checks for compliance in stores.
Pricing Your Repairs
No, the label doesn't indicate repair costs. As a spokesperson for the European consumer protection organization Beuc put it, the easier it is to dismantle a product and find replacement parts, the higher the repair class. However, it's essential to keep in mind that repair prices and service fees aren't factored into the final score.
Embracing the Green Future
Starting now, manufacturers also have to meet new eco-design requirements. Smartphones, tablets, and some other devices are expected to become more durable and resistant, with more enduring batteries. Manufacturers are obligated to provide essential spare parts, such as displays, batteries, and camera modules, within 5 to 10 working days for 7 years after purchase. Additionally, they must offer software updates for at least 5 years.
Making Smarter Choices
According to the European Commission, these changes are meant to aid consumers in making more responsible, sustainable purchasing decisions. Comparing devices before making a decision becomes quicker and easier. These alterations are also expected to save substantial amounts of CO2 and electricity.
The consumer protection organization Beuc praised the usefulness of the label: "The energy label can help consumers find the most efficient products," said a representative.
Even the German Environmental Aid (DUH) welcomed these changes, but called for stricter requirements across the board. "These new smartphone and electronic device regulations represent a significant stride towards greener goods and improved consumer information," remarked DUH Federal Managing Director Barbara Metz. "However, what about all other electrical products? The growing tide of e-waste from short-lived and hard-to-repair devices continues to escalate year by year."
Laptop Labels: In the Works?
Yes, at least in the planning stages. According to the Fraunhofer Institute for Reliability and Microintegration in Berlin, which contributed to the development of the energy label, a similar label for laptops is under development and anticipated to be unveiled in 2028.
[1] European Commission, Electrical and electronic equipment[2] EU Repair Hub[3] European Commission, Energy Efficiency of Mobile Phones
- With the new EU energy labels, it's now easier for consumers to compare the energy efficiency of smartphones, tablets, and even feature phones, as these devices will bear labels similar to washing machines, light bulbs, or TVs.
- As part of the EU Energy Revolution, smartphones and tablets are expected to become more durable and resistant, with more enduring batteries, making them not only eco-friendly but also potentially reducing the need for frequent replacements of gadgets like smartphones.
