It looks like Cupertino’s camp might be shaking up a bit as the European Union released “The New Batteries Directive”, which looks to require that batteries in any electronic device be readily and easily available for removal or replacement.  This is not the first time the EU has requested similar action, in 2006 they sought to make the process of disposing batteries easier.  Currently there is a “Battery Directive” in the EU, but the new directive clearly states that batteries must be “readily removed” for removal at the end of the product’s life.

Since the iPhone and all iPod would not comply with the new directive it is safe to assume Apple might be facing some significant hurdles. “The requirement is clearly intended to ensure that users can remove batteries by opening a cover by hand or after removal of one or two screws. The producer will also have to provide the user with details on how to remove the battery safely,” said New Electronics writer Gary Nevison

Via PhoneArena