Apple’s iPhone and iPad pages now display energy labels, thanks to a new European regulation. These colorful labels rate devices from A to G based on energy efficiency, durability, and repairability. The rating system considers factors like battery life, water resistance, and drop resistance.
What do these energy labels mean?
The EU’s new labels assess devices based on several criteria, including:
- Energy efficiency per charge
- Battery life cycle (number of complete charge cycles)
- Repairability (ease of replacing components)
- Water and dust resistance (IP protection index)
- Drop resistance
- Battery life per charge (usage time per complete cycle)
These labels are now visible on Apple’s product pages in EU countries, next to the device descriptions. Clicking on the icon reveals the full label.
Apple’s response to the new regulation
Apple has published a 44-page technical document detailing its process for generating these ratings. The company claims the European regulation contains ambiguous language and unclear testing methods. As a result, Apple has voluntarily lowered its own scores in some areas to avoid potential penalties from independent labs.
For example, Apple says its current iPhone models would qualify for the maximum energy efficiency rating (A), but the company has opted for a B rating instead. Similarly, Apple has reservations about the EU’s standardized drop resistance tests, citing variables like the type of wood or steel used in impact surfaces.
Conclusion
With these new labels, European consumers now have access to more transparent information about the environmental and structural performance of mobile devices. Despite its reservations, Apple is complying with the regulation and seeking to positively influence its future improvement. The EU’s goal is clear: to promote sustainability, facilitate informed choices, and encourage manufacturers to develop more durable, efficient, and repairable products.