I like what I am hearing so far - apparently its illegal for Apple ot sell a cell phone which wont allow users to replace batteries on their own. I know, I know ; those of you who can will do so easily , but there are noobs who cant do it so simply ; and this is good news for them. And despite knowing how to, it would certainly help if it was as easy like in other phones - a simple matter of pulling off the cover and pushing in a new battery.

As for the EU, the reason that they shall soon be forcing Apple is to allow easy removal of batteries in order to recycle them or properly dispose off them. Even after you are done with your iPhone ; its not easy to get rid of the battery for the recyclers.

While the Battery Directive now in force states that it must be easy for consumers to remove batteries from electronic products, the "New Batteries Directive" now being drafted over the next year goes even further to state that electrical equipment must be designed to allow that batteries be 'readily removed' for replacement or removal at the end of product's life.

This would affect not just the iPhone but also its famous iPod. Its unlikely that Apple would redesign its products merely for the EU ; but if it wants to stay in that market it will need to make some changes. We are hoping that these changes are reflected globally. The directive which would force Apple to do so is yet to be finalised or ratified.

Source