Nintendo could discontinue Switch in EU, making a Switch 2 Lite console a priority

Nintendo is revising the Switch 2 to meet EU right-to-repair regulations. By February 18th 2027, buyers should be able to replace the console’s battery more easily. However, the manufacturer has not addressed whether it will make changes to the original Switch. If it's forced to discontinue the handheld, a lower-priced Switch 2 Lite would become desirable.

The fate of the Switch is murky

Nintendo Patents Watch noted that a code datamined in January 2026 has reemerged. In the announcement, the company explained that products using the “BEE” code will have “OSM” labels after the tweaks. Gamers can find “BEE” listed on Switch 2 consoles, games, controllers, and accessories.

Since the first Switch lacks this labeling, its future in the EU and in regions with replaceable-battery regulations is unclear. The guidelines don’t impact existing units, and Nintendo would have until February 2027 to stockpile enough of the aging hardware. Eventually, some buyers would demand a cheaper alternative to the current-gen system.

Released in 2017, the gaming giant will inevitably retire the last-gen option. Even so, it remains a more affordable way to access newer games, many of which are compatible with both consoles. TheGamer reported on recent comments from CEO Shuntaro Furukawa, who suggested it will be supported for several years to come.

More challenges for console buyers

Without the Switch, EU gamers would need a larger budget to purchase the newer handheld. A Switch 2 price increase from €469.99 to €499.99 is also set for September 2026. One solution could be a Switch 2 Lite with limited functionality.

Patents Watch reminded followers that Nintendo’s last fiscal report showed a sharp rise in R&D costs. Recently, the company registered four confidential designs at the EUIPO website. These may refer to revisions with an easier-to-replace battery. It’s also possible that they describe new models of consoles or controllers.

A Switch 2 Lite could offer a smaller screen, sacrifice detachable Joy-Cons, or ship without a dock. Still, given that the higher Switch 2 price may not cover manufacturing costs, economizing on the hardware is challenging.