Newsbite analysis · Gaming
ExtremeTech
Nintendo Will Keep Selling Original Switch Consoles Outside of Europe
Nintendo has announced it will continue to sell the original Nintendo Switch in markets outside of Europe after 2027. This decision comes in light of new EU laws requiring user-replaceable batteries, which the original Switch design does not comply with. The company plans to offer a new, battery-swappable version in Europe but will cease sales of the original consoles in regions handled by Nintendo of Europe, including several key markets, starting mid-February 2027. However, retailers can clear existing stock until then, and the original consoles will still be available in North America and Japan without restriction.
MonitorConfidence: HighMid term horizonRegulatory risk: High
Published 8 Jul 2026, 18:50 UTC1 min read
Lead image — ExtremeTech
Brief
NewsBite reading:Nintendo to Maintain Original Switch Sales Outside Europe Beyond 2027
TL;DR
- Nintendo will not sell original Switch in Europe after mid-February 2027.
- New EU battery laws require user-replaceable batteries.
- Original consoles will be available in North America and Japan.
- Retailers in Europe can sell remaining stock until 2026.
- Nintendo is developing a battery-swappable version for the Switch 2.
Interesting facts
- The original Nintendo Switch's battery is glued in, which fails EU regulations.
- The compliance deadline allows consumers time to buy the original Switch.
What changed
Nintendo will stop selling the original Switch in Europe due to new battery regulations.