Nintendo Joy-Con battery kits to meet EU rules

Nintendo is making some smart moves for the future of gaming hardware, not just with the arrival of the new Nintendo Switch 2, but also by addressing environmental concerns. In Europe, the brand is updating older Joy-Con controllers to comply with new EU regulations regarding e-waste.

But this isn’t just about compliance; it’s about giving gamers more control and longevity to their favorite accessories. Beyond the hardware update, Nintendo is also preparing to equip fans who love tinkering with their gear by providing official battery replacement kits for these revised gamepads.

The details surrounding these changes come directly from Nintendo’s official support channels. The brand has published a detailed guide on replacing the battery for the new EU-compliant right Joy-Con controller, ensuring users know exactly how to proceed with this update.

To help users identify which controllers offer user-replaceable batteries, Nintendo provides helpful information. Controllers with specific serial number prefixes, such as AX or AW found in the system settings, are equipped with batteries that can be replaced. Older models also indicate whether they contain a replaceable battery via small print on the back.

When it comes to physically swapping out the power source, Nintendo has provided comprehensive instructions. The official process involves following a 13-step procedure, which includes removing the controller’s back panel and managing old components safely. For those who prefer a visual guide, the support page even offers video clips detailing these steps, along with crucial advice on how to dispose of old batteries responsibly.

Getting started with the battery replacement process requires a few basic tools—a Phillips screwdriver, plastic tweezers, a spudger, and some double-sided tape. Nintendo thoughtfully includes all necessary components within their official battery replacement kit, making the task accessible for even the most cautious tinkerer.

While the instruction manual is robust, fans are understandably eager for physical availability of these tools. Currently, there has been no immediate announcement regarding when the Nintendo Battery Replacement Kit will be stocked on the official Nintendo Store. Meanwhile, the dream of officially supplied Joy-Con stick replacements remains a distant goal for many.