The "CE RED Directive Certification" is a new hurdle that must be overcome. However, unlike MSIP, which is issued by specific agencies, the core logic of RED Certification lies in systematic compliance under "manufacturer self-declaration," with connotations far richer than a mere certificate label. Understanding this is the foundation for creating differentiated content.
The official name of the RED Directive is Radio Equipment Directive (Directive 2014/53/EU). It is not merely a market access threshold but also bears three core missions of the EU in technical regulation:
1.Safety Assurance: Ensure that the use of radio equipment does not endanger health or safety (e.g., electrical safety, radiation safety).
2.Spectrum Efficiency: Ensure efficient use of radio spectra, prevent harmful interference, and maintain an orderly electromagnetic environment.
3.Public Policy: This is the most dynamically evolving area in recent years, aiming to promote broader public policy goals through regulations. Typical examples include:
·Cybersecurity: Protect networks from attacks, safeguard user privacy and data, and prevent fraud.
·Sustainability and Consumer Rights: Reduce electronic waste through universal charging interfaces (USB-C) and provide convenience for consumers.
Therefore, compliance with the RED Directive means your product must meet requirements in these three dimensions simultaneously and prepare a complete set of technical evidence.
II. Key 2025-2026 Updates to CE RED Certification
Focus 1: Cybersecurity Becomes a Mandatory Access Requirement
Since August 1, 2025, the cybersecurity requirements under Article 3.3 (d, e, f) of the Directive have been mandatorily enforced. This means all wireless devices with network connectivity must undergo evaluation against the EN 18031 series of harmonized standards. This is not an optional security enhancement but an access threshold on par with RF testing.
·EN 18031-1: Focuses on network and system resilience (e.g., preventing service disruptions).
·EN 18031-2: Focuses on privacy and data protection, especially for wearables and children's devices.
·EN 18031-3: Focuses on fraud prevention for devices with payment or financial transaction functions.
Focus 2: Universal Charger (USB-C) Requirements Enter Enforcement Period
Under revised Directive (EU) 2022/2380, most radio equipment rechargeable via wired connections (e.g., mobile phones, cameras, headphones) must be equipped with a USB-C charging interface starting December 28, 2024. The enforcement date for laptops is April 28, 2026. This regulation aims to reduce electronic waste and explicitly requires products to indicate charging power and other information.
Focus 3: Dynamic Updates to Harmonized Standards Are Normal
The specific technical requirements of the RED Directive are reflected through "harmonized standards," which are updated almost quarterly. For example, in August and December 2025, the EU updated multiple harmonized standards covering satellite earth stations, LTE/5G base stations, and UWB devices. This means a product compliant today may need to be re-evaluated against new standards if its current standard becomes invalid in a year. Keeping abreast of updates in the Official Journal of the EU is key to long-term compliance.
III. Implementation Path: A Four-Step Framework Beyond "Testing for Certification"
1.Compliance Strategy Planning: In the early product design phase, conduct a gap analysis against the RED's threefold requirements (safety, spectrum, public policy) based on the product's wireless functions, network connectivity, and whether it involves payments. Integrating cybersecurity and USB-C requirements into design can greatly avoid disruptive late-stage modifications.
2.Technical Document Construction: This is the cornerstone of "self-declaration." You need to prepare not just a stack of reports but a complete evidence chain proving the product's compliance throughout its lifecycle (design, production, maintenance)—including risk assessment reports, technical construction files, test reports, and declarations of conformity—all to be retained for at least 10 years.
3.Conformity Assessment: Select the correct assessment module based on product risk level. Most standard products can adopt internal production control (Module A), while high-risk products or those not fully covered by standards must involve an EU Notified Body.
4.Sign Declaration of Conformity and Affix CE Marking: This is the final legal step. The manufacturer or its authorized representative in the EU signs the EU Declaration of Conformity and affixes the CE marking to the product—officially declaring it legally marketable.
We hope this analysis, from core logic and latest dynamics to implementation frameworks, provides a solid foundation for creating forward-looking and practically guiding content. If you want to conduct a more in-depth analysis of compliance priorities for specific product types (e.g., industrial IoT devices, smart wearables),
BLUEASIA Technology: +86 13534225140 provides professional certification consulting services.
Related News
