Apple Critiques EU Energy Labels, Downgrades iPhone and iPad Ratings

Apple has begun implementing new EU energy labels for its products, which are now mandatory as part of the EU Commission's Ecodesign requirements. This new labeling system, introduced recently, has sparked some confusion among consumers, according to the tech giant. In a recent publication, Apple outlined its approach to these regulations, highlighting various aspects it finds contentious.

The company reported that its latest iPhone model, the iPhone 16, has received a 'B' rating for energy efficiency, despite Apple believing it could achieve an 'A' rating. The situation is even more pronounced with the iPad, where three different models--the standard iPad, iPad Pro, and iPad Air--have been assigned the lowest efficiency rating of 'G'. Only the iPad mini fared slightly better with a rating of 'E', still placing it in the third-lowest category.

In its detailed report, Apple pointed out that the new EU regulations for energy consumption labeling of smartphones and tablets include several preliminary testing procedures that are vaguely defined. As a result, some of the information displayed on the energy labels may be influenced by manufacturers' and testing laboratories' interpretations of the regulations. Consequently, Apple has opted to voluntarily lower its product ratings to account for potential discrepancies in these interpretations. The company has expressed hope that it can work with the EU Commission and other stakeholders to address these ambiguities in the testing criteria.

Additionally, Apple has made further adjustments to its product ratings, including a new metric related to the devices' durability when dropped. Apple noted that the EU's conditions lack specific guidelines regarding the surfaces used for testing impacts, such as the type of wood or steel on which the devices may land. The EU energy label now also reflects a repairability score (with both iPhone and iPad rated 'C'), along with an IP rating indicating resistance to liquids and dust. Furthermore, it provides information on battery lifespan in charging cycles and battery durability per cycle.

When it comes to software updates, the Ecodesign directive proposes that manufacturers must provide updates for a minimum of five years after a device is no longer sold. Apple typically complies with this standard, but the company is hesitant to make a formal guarantee regarding this practice. In response to inquiries, Apple referred to its existing practices regarding security updates for older devices and its commitment to longevity.

A notable aspect of the initial energy efficiency ratings has affected not only Apple's products but also devices from other manufacturers, such as the Android-based Galaxy Tab S10+, which also received a 'G' rating. This appears to stem from the testing methodologies mandated by the EU, where larger screens negatively impact the ratings, which is evident when comparing devices like the iPad mini that achieved better scores. Reports suggest that Apple may have intentionally reported lower values for its iPads to ensure compliance with the regulations.