Tech Insights - Germany Looks to Extend EU Guidance on Mobile Technology Replacement

The German federal government is looking to expand a recently published EU proposal that smartphones should have replacement parts and software updates for 5 years, while tablets should have 6 years. The current proposal also would require that part prices for replacements be published and remain unchanged throughout the replacement cycle, but does not provide guidelines on such pricing. The parts are to be available at a maximum delivery time of 5 days.

Meanwhile, German proposals are urging a period of 7 years for replacements and updates, as well as ensuring they are available ‘at a reasonable price’. The German government may also want the delivery time reduced, to avoid incentivising immediate replacement.