Every year, the world generates over 50 million tons of electronic waste, and smartphones are a significant contributor to this problem. In response, the EU is stepping up its efforts to reduce tech waste, and Germany’s new smartphone durability law is leading the charge.
As of June 20, 2025, a new regulation requires that smartphones sold in Germany must maintain at least 80% of their battery capacity after 800 complete charge cycles. In addition, manufacturers are now required to provide spare parts for at least seven years, making it easier and cheaper to repair your device instead of replacing it.
So, what does this mean if you’re an expat living in Germany?
Whether you just moved or have been here for years, figuring out how to buy, repair, or upgrade a smartphone in a new country can be confusing, especially with limited English-language resources. This guide is designed to break it all down in plain language.
We’ll cover:
- What to know when buying or repairing a phone in Germany
- How warranty and repair rights are changing
- What expats should consider when buying second-hand
- How the law affects mobile contracts and upgrades
- Tips for making your phone last longer under the new rules
If you’re wondering how the German smartphone durability law 2025 affects your daily life, this guide is for you. Let’s dig in.
Fini les smartphones jetables, l’Europe impose la durabilité.
— NumerInside (@NumerInside) June 12, 2025
Le 20 juin 2025 marquera un tournant pour tous les smartphones et tablettes vendus dans l’Union européenne. Ce jour-là entreront en vigueur de nouvelles règles ambitieuses visant à prolonger la durée de vie des… pic.twitter.com/1IPcD71DYx
What the New Durability Law Means for Expats
Germany’s new smartphone durability law, part of broader EU repair rules, kicks in on June 20, 2025. It sets strict standards for how long phones should last and how easy they should be to fix.
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Battery health must remain above 80% after 800 complete charge cycles. That’s about 2–3 years of regular daily use.
- Spare parts, like screens, cameras, batteries, and charging ports, must be available for 7 years after the phone model is discontinued.
- New energy labels will be displayed on smartphone packaging and websites, showing:
- Battery life
- Energy efficiency
- Ease of repair (based on how easily the phone can be taken apart and repaired)
These changes aim to reduce electronic waste and help consumers save money by repairing rather than replacing.
Why It Matters for Expats
If you’ve just moved to Germany or plan to stay long-term, this law is good news. It means:
- Fewer surprise breakdowns when you’re settling into a new country
- More straightforward repairs, even years after purchase, without language barriers or shipping phones abroad
- Confidence in buying a second-hand device, knowing spare parts and repair info must still be available
The German smartphone durability law 2025 supports smarter, longer-lasting purchases, ideal if you’re trying to avoid extra expenses or administrative headaches during your transition.
Next up: how this affects your smartphone buying decisions in Germany.
Buying a New Smartphone in Germany
Starting June 20, 2025, any new smartphone sold in Germany must meet the standards set by the new EU-wide durability law. That means when you walk into a store or shop online, you’ll start seeing energy efficiency labels and repairability ratings, just like you do on fridges or washing machines.
These labels are more than just technical info. They show you how long a phone is expected to last, how easily it can be repaired, and how it performs in terms of battery life. For expats adjusting to life in Germany, this makes smartphone shopping much more transparent and far less risky.
When purchasing, ensure the phone is clearly marked as EU-compliant under the German smartphone durability law of 2025. Most major electronics stores like MediaMarkt, Saturn, or Amazon Germany will include this info on the box or product listing. A phone with a high repairability score is not only more sustainable, it’s also less likely to leave you scrambling for a replacement at the worst possible time.
This is especially helpful if you’re living on a tight budget or planning to relocate again. Instead of worrying about swapping phones every year, you’ll have confidence that your device is built to last, and legally backed to stay repairable for up to seven years.
In short, buying smart means buying once. And thanks to the new law, it’s easier than ever for expats to do just that in Germany.
Repairing Your Phone with Ease
Thanks to Germany’s new smartphone durability law, repairing your phone in 2025 will be simpler, faster, and far less expensive, especially if you’re an expat dealing with a foreign system.
Under the law, manufacturers are now required to provide spare parts for a minimum of seven years after a phone model has been discontinued. These parts, such as batteries, screens, and charging ports, must be delivered to certified repair centers within 5 to 10 business days. This guarantees that if something goes wrong, you won’t be stuck waiting weeks or forced to buy a new device.
For expats, this is a game-changer. You no longer need to worry about language barriers, long shipping delays, or tracking down obscure repair shops. Most authorized service centers and even some independent repair stores in Germany will now have better access to the parts they need.
It’s essential to note that professional repair technicians receive priority access to replacement parts. This means that while you can attempt to repair your item on your own, some parts may not be available for individual buyers. If you like to do repairs yourself, it’s something to consider.
Still, for the vast majority of users, the process is now smoother and more predictable. The bottom line? If your phone breaks in Germany, even years after you bought it, you’ll have a far easier time getting it fixed without breaking the bank.
Warranties and Second-Hand Phone Purchases
The German smartphone durability law, effective in 2025, does not increase warranty periods. In Germany, standard warranties for new purchases are still two years. However, this law focuses on extending battery life and ensuring the availability of spare parts. As a result, you are less likely to need to make a warranty claim.
For expats eyeing the second-hand market, the new rules bring both opportunities and caveats.
Not all used phones will meet the new durability standards. Phones released before June 2025 are exempt from providing seven years of spare parts or 800-cycle battery performance. If you’re buying a used phone, check its original release date. Phones sold after mid-2025 will be easier to maintain and repair, and they are more likely to keep their value.
Second-hand shopping is a great way for expats to save money, especially when settling into a new location. However, don’t assume that every used phone on platforms like eBay, Kleinanzeigen, Refurbed, or Back Market complies with the new law. Look for listings that clearly state the model, release date, and battery health. Whenever possible, buy from sellers who offer a return window or limited warranty.
The good news is that as more used phones come to market, buyers will enjoy better reliability and longer usability. This makes buying second-hand a smart choice for budget-conscious expats in the long run.
Telecom Contracts in a Durable Phone Era
Approximately 70% of smartphone users upgrade every 2 years, which is a notable trend. With Germany’s new durability law in place, phones are built to last longer. That means the old model of upgrading every 24 months no longer makes as much sense, especially for expats trying to simplify their budgets and avoid unnecessary waste.
What This Means for Contracts
Longer phone lifespans shift the power back to the consumer. You’re no longer tied to costly contracts that bundle in a phone you don’t really need. Instead, you can opt for SIM-only plans, often at a fraction of the cost, or negotiate longer-term agreements that reward you with better monthly rates.
If you’re signing up with a German provider like Telekom, O2, or Vodafone, ask about flexible terms that don’t automatically include a new phone. These deals are becoming increasingly common, especially as durability and repairability are taking priority.
Why This Helps Expats
If you’ve just moved to Germany or are still figuring out your long-term plans, the last thing you need is a rigid two-year contract tied to frequent phone upgrades. The new durability rules make it easier to stick with a phone you trust, avoid hidden fees, and find a plan that actually fits your lifestyle.
In short, this isn’t just a change in tech, it’s a shift in mindset. And for expats adjusting to German telecom culture, it’s a welcome one.
Best Practices for Device Longevity
Extending phone life by just one year cuts your carbon footprint by 30%. That’s not just good for the planet, it’s great for your wallet, too. With Germany’s new durability law supporting longer-lasting devices, a few simple habits can help your smartphone stay fast, safe, and reliable for years.
Take Care of Your Battery
Modern batteries don’t like extremes. Avoid leaving your phone in extremely hot or cold places (such as a parked car). Use power-saving modes whenever possible, and try to avoid letting your battery drain to 0% too often. Charging between 20% and 80% can help extend lifespan.
Stay on Top of Maintenance
Just like any device, your phone needs a little care—clean ports gently with a soft brush. Install software updates promptly; they protect against bugs and improve performance. A sturdy case and screen protector are well worth the investment, especially if you’re frequently exploring new cities or traveling.
Where to Get Repairs—In English
If something does go wrong, Germany now makes it easier to repair. For expats, the challenge can be finding English-speaking services. Here are a few places to start:
- Berlin: iCracked (Prenzlauer Berg), Justcom
- Munich: Handy Reparatur München, Repair Express
- Frankfurt: FixmyPhone, iHelpStore
These shops often list services in English or have staff who can guide you through the repair process without language stress.
Smartphone durability laws set the standard, but how you treat your phone makes the biggest difference. With a bit of care, your device can serve you well beyond the usual upgrade cycle.
Conclusion: Smarter Phone Use Starts Here
Germany’s new smartphone durability law, set to take effect in 2025, is a significant win for everyone, particularly for those living abroad. The law aims to extend the lifespan of phones by improving battery life and making replacement parts readily available. It also allows for more flexible phone plans and helps reduce electronic waste. These changes will enable you to make smarter, more eco-friendly choices when it comes to your smartphone.
If you are new to Germany or have lived here for years, this law helps you save money, reduce problems, and keep your phone working longer. This is something every expat can appreciate.
Don’t feel pressured to upgrade your phone. Instead, focus on choosing devices that last longer. Look for phones that can be easily repaired, take good care of your device, and use the new rules that benefit you.
Found this guide helpful? Please share it with fellow expats or drop a comment with your own tips or questions. The more we learn from each other, the easier it gets to thrive in a new country, one smart decision at a time.
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