Ensure product can be uniquely identified (serialisation)

Your product needs a clear ID — a serial number, model number, or version string. This lets anyone say which exact product or version is the issue. It is key when a bug is found or a recall is needed. For apps, show the version in the settings or About screen.

Legal text

Article 13(14) of Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 requires that manufacturers shall ensure that the product with digital elements bears a type, batch or serial number or other element allowing the identification of the product.

Where the size or nature of the product with digital elements does not allow for this, the required information shall be placed on the packaging or in a document accompanying the product.

Key requirements

Unique product identifier — type designation, model number, batch, or serial
Version identifier — for software products, the version number (major.minor.patch or equivalent) must be clearly indicated and accessible to users
Placement — on the product itself, or on its packaging or accompanying documents where the product is too small or its nature does not permit marking
Consistency — the identifier used on the product must match the identifier in the technical documentation, EU DoC, and any market surveillance correspondence

Software versioning guidance

For software-only products and firmware:

Use a clear versioning scheme (e.g. semantic versioning)
Display the current version in the software UI (e.g. "About" screen, settings page)
Each version placed on the market is treated as a distinct product instance for conformity and support-period purposes

Evidence you may need

Physical product markings or screenshots showing version/serial number
Version history records
Technical documentation referencing product identifiers
Correspondence with market surveillance authorities using consistent identifiers