Apple Adds Energy Labels to iPhones & iPads in Europe
Published 10 hours ago• 5 minute read
Apple, energy labels, EU regulations, iPhone, iPad, environmental transparency”>
CITY, June 21, 2025
Apple is now displaying energy labels for iPhones and iPads on its European websites.
Apple is adapting to new European regulations, displaying on its Italian website for iPhones and iPads, providing an efficiency rating for consumers.
As of yesterday, June 20, 2025, Apple has included energy labels on the official European websites for iPhones and iPads. These labels are similar to those already required for appliances and TVs.
this change is due to new European Union regulations mandating environmental transparency standards for electronic devices. These standards require manufacturers to clearly communicate data on energy consumption, battery life, reparability, and durability.
Did you know?-The EU’s eco-design directive aims to reduce the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle, from manufacturing to disposal. This includes energy consumption, resource use, and waste generation.
Each iPhone and iPad now receives a grade from A (maximum efficiency) to G, based on criteria set by the European Commission. Apple is taking a cautious approach. Although some models internally achieve an A rating, Apple has voluntarily assigned some a B rating to avoid discrepancies with autonomous tests and varying interpretations of the parameters.
This cautious approach extends to other factors, such as impact resistance (repeated free fall) and reparability.
Pro tip:-When comparing energy labels, consider the device’s intended use. A higher-rated device might not always be the best choice if its features don’t align with your specific needs.
The new labels, indicated by a small colored icon next to the device name, provide key data:
By clicking the icon, users can download a detailed PDF containing technical data, such as:
Reader question:-How will these energy labels influence your purchasing decisions for new iPhones and iPads? Will you prioritize higher-rated devices, even if they have fewer features?
Labels on packaging, too.
Besides the online labels, Apple will also print and include the labels in the packaging of devices sold throughout the European Union, Norway, and Switzerland.
Apple stated they support the principle of transparency but noted that some evaluation criteria remain unclear or hard to standardize.Awaiting clearer testing methods, the company chose to act cautiously while fully complying with the new rules.
This ancient shift marks a new era of awareness for European consumers who are increasingly mindful of the sustainability and longevity of their devices.
The introduction of energy labels on iPhones and iPads marks more than just a compliance measure. It’s a step towards a more informed consumer base and a push for greater sustainability in the tech industry.These offer valuable insights beyond the basic A to G rating, empowering buyers to make more conscious choices.
This shift encourages both manufacturers and consumers to consider the full life cycle of a device – from its creation to its eventual disposal. This means looking at ways to minimize environmental impact at every stage.
Why Does This Matter?
The environmental impact of electronic devices is substantial. manufacturing processes require critically important energy and resources. Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing global problem, posing risks to both human health and the environment due to hazardous materials.
By providing detailed information on energy consumption, durability, and reparability, the EU regulations and Apple’s implementation encourage the following:
Did you know?– The EU’s Ecodesign directive is a key part of its circular economy action plan, which aims to make sustainable products the norm, boosting resource efficiency and reducing waste.
Practical Tips for Consumers
How can the new energy labels guide your next iPhone or iPad purchase?
Do energy labels truly matter when buying new Apple products? Yes, the labels allow for direct comparisons between devices, and they highlight critically important factors like battery life and repairability. These labels also provide a more comprehensive view of a device’s environmental footprint. They empower consumers to make choices that align with their values.
A glimpse at the Future
The current iteration of the EU’s energy label initiative is just the beginning. As testing methodologies become clearer and more standardized, the labels are likely to evolve, providing even more comprehensive information. This drive from the EU could inspire similar standards in other regions, creating a global push towards greater openness and sustainability in the tech industry.
Manufacturers will be incentivized to innovate and design more eco-amiable devices to achieve higher ratings.This healthy competition will ultimately benefit consumers and the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the “Degree of Reparability” rating on the label indicate?
The reparability score assesses how easy it is to repair the device,considering factors such as the availability of spare parts,repair manuals,and the device’s design for disassembly.
Will these energy labels apply to all Apple products?
Currently, the regulations primarily cover smartphones and tablets. However, ther’s a possibility that these standards will expand to encompass other Apple products over time.
Are these labels only for new devices?
Yes, the energy labels are currently required for new devices sold in the EU, Norway, and Switzerland. Though, secondhand markets may also begin to emphasize these metrics as consumers become more educated.
How are the energy efficiency ratings calculated?
The ratings are based on criteria established by the European Commission, considering factors like energy consumption during use, battery life, and more. The criteria are subject to periodic revisions.
