🔒EU Repair Rules: 80% of Devices Still Lack Info

EU's Repair Rules: A Year In, Most Phones Still Unfixable

Over 80% of smartphones and tablets sold in the EU still lack repair information a year after the EU's repairability rules took effect. Manufacturers are required to publish repair guides and spare parts information, but a review of the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling found that few manufacturers have complied. Of 2,334 records for smartphone models, only about 18% list a website with repair instructions or spare parts prices. This lack of compliance is a significant issue for consumers and repair shops, as it hinders the ability to fix devices and prolong their lifespan. The EU's approach, which relies on self-reporting by manufacturers, is under scrutiny, with some manufacturers even awarding themselves top marks despite non-compliance. The listed price bracket for spare parts is often vague, and the link to repair information rarely offers a direct path to parts prices. This situation highlights the need for stronger enforcement and clearer guidelines to ensure that repair information is readily available to consumers.