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Removable Batteries Make a Comeback in Smartphones

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. le-batteries-make-a-comeback-in-smartphones.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 8:02 GMT by SlashGear
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Friday, February 27th, 2026 - For over a decade, the sealed-battery smartphone has been the industry standard. The convenience of a swappable power source, once a hallmark of mobile phones, felt like a relic of a bygone era. Now, however, a significant shift is underway. Removable battery phones aren't just making a comeback; they're sparking a conversation about sustainability, consumer rights, and the very design philosophy behind our increasingly ubiquitous devices.

For years, manufacturers prioritized sleek aesthetics and water resistance, often at the expense of user repairability. The result? A cycle of planned obsolescence where a failing battery often meant a new phone purchase - contributing massively to the growing mountain of electronic waste. But consumer sentiment is changing. A recent global survey by the "Digital Lifespan Institute" revealed that 78% of respondents considered battery life and repairability important factors when purchasing a new smartphone, exceeding even camera quality and processing power for a significant demographic.

This demand isn't being ignored. While Fairphone has consistently led the charge with its modular, repair-focused designs since its inception in 2013, the past two years have seen a surge in interest from mainstream manufacturers. Ulefone and AGM were early adopters in this resurgence, but 2025 and early 2026 have witnessed major players tentatively dipping their toes into the water. Samsung, for instance, released the "Galaxy Renew" model in late 2025, featuring a user-replaceable battery - although hidden beneath a more complex back panel than earlier models. While not easily swapped, it signaled a clear acknowledgment of consumer desire for longer device lifecycles.

The driving force isn't solely consumer demand. Increased regulation across Europe, particularly the "Right to Repair" legislation fully implemented in January 2026, is forcing manufacturers to consider design changes that prioritize repairability. This legislation mandates the availability of spare parts and repair manuals for a minimum of five years, significantly impacting the cost and complexity of sealed designs.

Several innovative designs are emerging. Dual-battery systems, popularized by rugged phone manufacturers like AGM, are gaining traction. These offer extended usage and the ability to swap out a depleted battery for a fully charged one without powering down the device. Other companies are exploring magnetic battery connections or simplified latching mechanisms for quicker, tool-free replacement. "PowerSwap Technologies", a startup gaining significant investor attention, unveiled a prototype phone last month utilizing a standardized, hot-swappable battery module, potentially enabling users to purchase batteries from any compatible manufacturer.

However, the transition isn't seamless. Engineering challenges remain. Maintaining a robust IP68 water resistance rating with a removable battery compartment is a considerable hurdle. Manufacturers are employing advanced sealing techniques and gasket designs, but these add complexity and cost. There's also the aesthetic concern: incorporating a battery compartment inevitably adds bulk to the device. Early removable battery phones were often noticeably thicker and heavier than their sealed-battery counterparts. Modern designs are attempting to mitigate this through clever engineering and material selection, but a compromise is often necessary.

Furthermore, the return of removable batteries raises questions about standardization. If different manufacturers adopt different battery compartment designs and battery types, it could limit consumer choice and reduce the benefits of the "Right to Repair" movement. The push for a universal battery standard, similar to USB-C charging, is gaining momentum among consumer advocacy groups.

The impact on e-waste could be substantial. Replacing a battery for $30-$50 is significantly cheaper and more environmentally friendly than replacing an entire phone, which costs hundreds of dollars and generates significant electronic waste. Experts estimate that extending the lifespan of smartphones by just one year could reduce global e-waste by millions of tons annually.

The resurgence of removable battery phones isn't just about convenience; it's a reflection of a growing awareness of the environmental and economic costs of our disposable tech culture. Whether it becomes the dominant design paradigm or remains a niche market for eco-conscious consumers remains to be seen, but the trend clearly indicates a shift towards prioritizing longevity, repairability, and consumer empowerment in the smartphone industry.