A new Nintendo Switch 2 model with a removable battery is reportedly in development, but it is only planned for release in Europe at the moment. Nintendo Switch 2 launched in June 2025, more than eight years after the original Switch was released in stores. The new system debuted alongside Mario Kart World, the long-awaited follow-up to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While Switch 2 remains compatible with most Switch 1 games, the system has seen a steady stream of exclusive games over the last year.
The original Switch proved to be one of the most successful video game systems of all-time. As a result, fans and pundits questioned whether Nintendo Switch 2 would be able to achieve anywhere near as much success. However, Nintendo Switch 2 sales continue to outpace the original Switch. The system has sold more than 17 million units, and that number will likely grow as more exclusive titles are offered. At this time, Nintendo continues to support the original Switch with new software, but that will likely slow down as more people adopt the newer hardware.
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The New Nintendo Switch 2 Model
Information about a new Nintendo Switch 2 model with a removable battery was first revealed by Japanese outlet Nikkei. The newspaper states that the model is meant to bring the system in line with legislation passed in the European Union in 2023, which gives consumers the right to repair their own electronics. Many electronics manufacturers make it prohibitively difficult to replace the batteries with new ones, often forcing consumers to pay for repairs, or to replace the device altogether. Europe’s new standard will change that, allowing consumers to simply buy a new battery for their game system or phone. The new Nintendo Switch 2 model will reportedly make it easier to change the battery in the console itself, and even in the Joy-Con controllers. Considering that Nintendo’s Joy-Con controllers are prone to issues, that’s a very good thing. The requirement does not go into effect until February 2027, so it’s possible the new model won’t go on sale until next year.
A Nintendo Switch 2 system that allows users to easily swap out the battery would be a win for consumers. Batteries degrade over time, and gamers like being able to preserve their systems for use long into the future. There’s a thriving market of collectors that enjoy buying older games and systems and revisiting them, and being able to easily replace degraded batteries helps with that. Unfortunately, there is a catch, and it seems this Switch 2 model will only be released in Europe. Right to Repair advocates have made similar legislative efforts in the US, but there hasn’t been anything as significant as what has been passed in Europe. Nintendo is apparently planning for the possibility of other regions passing similar regulations, so this model could eventually be released in other markets, should that happen.
The appeal of Nintendo Switch 2 will likely continue to rise as more exclusive games are released. Pokemon Pokopia has already sold 2.2 million units on Switch 2 since launching earlier this month, and could prove to be a system seller. Later this year, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave are coming to Switch 2 as well, further expanding the system’s line-up of exclusive games. This should put pressure on Nintendo fans that haven’t upgraded to the new system just yet, but those in Europe might want to hold out for the new version of the hardware. The new Nintendo Switch 2 model could end up being a more worthwhile option that helps the system last longer, and cost less to repair if needed.
Source: IGN
