Apple iPhone 16 Series Sees Major Upgrad in Reparability: Battery, Face ID, Repair Assistant Revolutionized

Apple iPhone 16 Series Sees Major Upgrad in Reparability: Battery, Face ID, Repair Assistant RevolutionizedApple has been striving to improve the repairability of its devices, but the iPhone 15 faced some issues regarding battery replacement and LiDAR sensor replacement, resulting in a relatively low repairability score. To address these concerns, Apple has released new updates regarding the repairability of the iPhone 16 series, which seem to have yielded significant progress

Apple iPhone 16 Series Sees Major Upgrad in Reparability: Battery, Face ID, Repair Assistant Revolutionized

Apple has been striving to improve the repairability of its devices, but the iPhone 15 faced some issues regarding battery replacement and LiDAR sensor replacement, resulting in a relatively low repairability score. To address these concerns, Apple has released new updates regarding the repairability of the iPhone 16 series, which seem to have yielded significant progress.

Apple claims the company has always worked to balance durability and repairability when designing new devices, and they have particularly focused on repairability in the iPhone 16 series.

Revolutionized Battery Removal Method: Easier and Safer

The iPhone 16 series adopts a new battery removal method. Using a low-voltage current (such as a 9V battery) through a new ionic liquid battery adhesive allows for easy battery removal from the device. Compared to the previous stretch-release adhesive, this method makes battery removal faster and safer.

Face ID Sensor Hardware Upgrade: Enhanced Interchangeability, Safety Uncompromised

Starting with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, Apple has made changes to the Face ID sensor hardware. Now, the TrueDepth camera can be interchanged between different devices without affecting security and privacy. Previously, only Apple could perform this type of repair.

Repair Assistant Feature Upgrade: Streamlined Parts Pairing, Enhanced Repair Efficiency

Apple has introduced a new Repair Assistant feature aimed at addressing parts pairing issues. Now, customers and repair professionals can directly configure new and used Apple parts on the device without contacting Apple personnel.

Expanded Repairable Modules: TrueDepth Camera and LiDAR Scanner Can Be Repaired Independently

Apple has also added new repairable modules. The TrueDepth camera on iPhone 12 and later models can now be configured on the device, eliminating the need for a Mac connection. Additionally, the LiDAR scanner on iPhone Pro models can now be repaired alongside the rear camera module.

Enhanced Device Diagnostic Features: No Second Device Required, Easy Part Issue Identification

Starting with iOS 18, Apple will provide on-device repair diagnostics, allowing customers to identify which parts need replacement without using a second device.

New Support for Third-Party and Used Parts: Enhanced Part Compatibility, Reduced Repair Costs

Apple has announced new support for third-party and used Apple parts. If a third-party part cannot be calibrated on Apple's cloud servers, the iPhone or other device will attempt to activate the part and enable full functionality, displaying a repair history in settings. Used Apple parts will soon be able to undergo calibration and will be displayed as "used" parts in the device's repair history.

Future Updates: Third-Party Displays Enable True Tone, Third-Party Batteries Offer Battery Health Functionality

Apple also promises future updates to enable True Tone for third-party displays and provide battery health functionality for third-party batteries.

LiDAR Scanner and Front Camera Modules Function Correctly Even Without Configuration After Replacement

Even if the LiDAR scanner and front camera modules have been replaced and not configured, they will still function correctly.

Overall, the iPhone 16 series appears to have made one of the biggest leaps in repairability to date, with improvements in physical access, part compatibility, and part pairing. These improvements will make repairs more convenient, faster, and affordable, reflecting Apple's commitment to user rights.

Here are specific details of the updates:

• Battery Replacement: Uses a new ionic liquid battery adhesive that allows for easy battery removal from the device using a low-voltage current.

• Face ID Sensor: The TrueDepth camera can now be interchanged between different devices without Apple authorization.

• Repair Assistant: Customers and repair professionals can directly configure new and used Apple parts on the device without contacting Apple personnel.

• Repairable Modules: The TrueDepth camera on iPhone 12 and later models and the LiDAR scanner on iPhone Pro models can now be repaired independently.

• Device Diagnostics: Starting with iOS 18, users can perform repair diagnostics through the device itself without using a second device.

• Third-Party and Used Parts Support: Apple will attempt to activate third-party parts that cannot be calibrated on Apple's cloud servers and offer calibration services for used parts.

• Future Updates: Will enable True Tone for third-party displays and provide battery health functionality for third-party batteries.

• LiDAR Scanner and Front Camera Modules: They will function correctly even after being replaced and not configured.

These updates will benefit users in the following ways:

• More Convenient Repairs: The new battery removal method and Repair Assistant feature make repairs more convenient.

• Lower Repair Costs: The support for third-party and used parts will lower repair costs.

• Faster Repair Speed: Independent repairable modules allow for faster repair speeds.

• Safer Repairs: Enhanced TrueDepth camera interchangeability doesn't compromise device security and privacy.

• Higher User Satisfaction: These improvements will enhance the repair experience for users, leading to greater satisfaction.

In conclusion, the iPhone 16 series has made significant strides in repairability, offering users greater convenience and affordability. This demonstrates Apple's active response to user demands and its commitment to improving the repairability of its products.