New EU rules mean your next phone or tablet will come with an energy label—just like your fridge. Here’s what you need to know before your next tech upgrade.Credit : garagestock, Shutterstock
So, you’re thinking about buying a new phone or tablet? Starting June 2025, you’re going to spot something totally new on the shelves across Europe: a big, bold energy label slapped on every device. But before your eyes glaze over, let’s chat about what it actually means, and why you’ll want to pay attention.
Why is the EU adding energy labels to phones and tablets?
We all know that most of us grab the phone that looks good, has a decent camera and (if you’re lucky) isn’t too pricey. But the EU wants us to get a bit savvier, especially when it comes to saving money, protecting the planet, and knowing how long our gadgets will actually last.
From June next year, every mobile and tablet will need to wear its eco-credentials on its sleeve. Or, well, on its box. The new label will tell you at a glance how energy-hungry it is, how tough it is when you (inevitably) drop it, whether it’s repair-friendly, and how long the battery should realistically survive.
What’s on the new energy label? It’s more than just power
Here’s what you’ll actually see when you pick up a new device:
- The Basics: You get the brand, the model, and a QR code that links to all the geeky details in the EU’s database.
- Energy Rating: Like fridges and washing machines, mobiles now get rated from A (super efficient) to G (the energy guzzler).
- Battery Life & Endurance: See how long your phone’s battery will last between charges, and (for phones) how many drops it can supposedly survive without giving up.
- Repairability Score: Because nobody wants a phone that costs more to fix than to buy. The new score lets you know if your device is easy (A) or a nightmare (E) to repair.
- Battery Lifespan: Not just how long a single charge lasts, but how many times you can charge it before it gets tired. Look for at least 80% battery after 800 charges.
- Water & Dust Resistance: No more guessing. Look for an “IP” number—if your phone’s at least IP44, it should handle splashes and a bit of dust.
- A Registration Code: OK, this is for the true tech-heads. Every device has a unique number so it’s all above board.
Why does the new energy label matter for You?
Look, nobody likes surprises, especially when your phone battery starts dying halfway through the day or the repair shop quotes you a price that makes you weep. With these new labels, you’ll know what you’re getting before you even open the box.
It also means less waste: if we all buy phones that last longer and can be fixed easily, fewer end up in the bin. That’s a big win for the environment, and it puts a bit more pressure on brands to up their game.
When June 2025 rolls around, don’t just go for the flashiest phone. Take a peek at that new label. It could save you cash, headaches, and maybe even a trip or two to the repair shop.
Buying smart isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the planet, too. And honestly, who wouldn’t want that?
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