In 2026 thanks to new EU regulations, the “right to repair” is shaking up the market considerably.

Extended warranty:  If you choose a repair instead of a replacement device within the statutory warranty period, your protection is extended by a further 12 months.

Manufacturers’ obligation to repair:  Even after the warranty period has expired, manufacturers are now legally obligated to repair common products such as smartphones and tablets.

Ban on software barriers:  Manufacturers are no longer allowed to hinder repairs by independent workshops through software blocks.

Manufacturers must now maintain spare parts for at least 7 to 10 years. These parts must be offered at a price that makes repairs economically viable.

If your tablet or smartphone breaks down in 2026, you have three clear options:

Self-repair:  You can consult official repair guides.

Independent garage:  You take it to a specialist garage of your choice. The manufacturer must provide this garage with all the necessary information.

Manufacturer service:  You use the official channel, but benefit from fair prices due to the new competition.

New legislation requires smartphones to be designed so that the battery is accessible with standard tools without damaging surrounding components. A professional battery replacement, including calibration and resealing, can often be done for as little as €60 to €80.