I could accept an adjustment where manufacturers only need to provide an option in the current generation, I.E. they can sell iPhone 16s that don't have a replaceable battery, as long as they sell an equivalent version that does. The argument for waterproofing seems fair to me, so the best approach in my mind would be to give that choice to consumers.

I would think that as long as a battery is replaceable, it should suffice to meet environmental requirements.

Specifically regarding the iPhone, with the current battery replacement cost being under $100, I find it difficult to understand this being such an issue where an entire continent needs to make a rule against the design.

But I understand some people just want the ability to fix their own shit without having to bring it in for service. And I know this isn't just about phones but nearly everything that has a battery.