The European Commission has published an updated Guide to the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU), replacing the previous edition from December 2018.
The new 95-page guide provides updated interpretations and practical clarification on the application of the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), particularly relevant to manufacturers of wireless and connected products entering the European market.
The updated guidance addresses several important areas, including:
- Cybersecurity requirements under RED Article 3(3)(d), (e) and (f);
- Conformity assessment procedures, harmonised standards and Notified Body involvement;
- Software updates and product modifications affecting compliance;
- Responsibilities of manufacturers, importers and distributors;
- Related EU legislation, including the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
Although the updated guide does not introduce new legal requirements, its clarifications may influence how manufacturers interpret and demonstrate compliance.
Questions About RED Compliance?
IoT Consulting Partners supports manufacturers with regulatory compliance, hands-on testing, debugging, certification, technical documentation, cybersecurity assessments and global market access.
If you have questions about the updated guidance or its implications for your products, please contact IoT Consulting Partners.
Frequently Asked Questions – EU RED Guide 2026
1. What is the EU RED Guide 2026?
The EU RED Guide 2026 is updated European Commission guidance explaining the application of Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU, including radio compliance, cybersecurity, conformity assessment and manufacturers' obligations.
2. What has changed in the 2026 RED Guide?
The updated guide provides further clarification on cybersecurity requirements, software updates, conformity assessment procedures, economic operators' responsibilities and related EU legislation, including the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
3. Does the updated RED Guide require manufacturers to retest their products?
Not automatically. The updated guide does not introduce new legal requirements. However, manufacturers may need to review existing technical documentation, risk assessments or test evidence to ensure continued compliance.
4. How does the updated RED Guide address cybersecurity requirements?
The guide clarifies the applicability of RED Article 3(3)(d), (e) and (f), particularly for internet-connected radio equipment. These cybersecurity requirements became applicable on 1 August 2025.
5. When is a Notified Body required under the Radio Equipment Directive?
Notified Body involvement depends on the applicable essential requirements, the harmonised standards used and the conformity assessment procedure selected. Where relevant harmonised standards are unavailable, not fully applied or subject to limitations, Notified Body involvement may be required.
6. What does "placing on the market" mean under the RED, and which date determines compliance?
Under the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU), a product is considered placed on the EU market when it is made available for the first time on the Union market.
This applies to each individual product, not simply to a product model or type. The relevant compliance date is therefore the date each individual product is first placed on the EU market, rather than its manufacturing or certification date.
Products must comply with the legal requirements applicable at the time they are placed on the market. Products already legally placed on the market before new requirements become applicable may generally continue to be distributed, subject to applicable transitional provisions and other legal obligations.