Story perspectives

EU Exempts Apple Watch, AirPods, Meta Glasses from Battery Rule

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Commission adopted act on July 14, 2026 exempting six wearables from removable-battery rule.
The exemption covers Apple Watch, AirPods and Meta smart glasses, whose batteries pose risks.
The act becomes law 20 days after Journal publication unless Parliament or Council objects.
U.S. Ambassador Andrew Puzder urged EU to relax rule, arguing it blocked a transatlantic product.
Consumer group BEUC warned exemptions must be based on evidence to avoid a precedent.

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Story summary

The Commission adopted act on July 14, 2026 exempting six wearables from removable-battery rule.
The exemption covers Apple Watch, AirPods and Meta smart glasses, whose batteries pose risks.
The act becomes law 20 days after Journal publication unless Parliament or Council objects.
U.S. Ambassador Andrew Puzder urged EU to relax rule, arguing it blocked a transatlantic product.
Consumer group BEUC warned exemptions must be based on evidence to avoid a precedent.