Apple Makes Major Reparability Upgrades for iPhone 16

Apple Makes Major Reparability Upgrades for iPhone 16Apple has been working to improve the repairability of its devices, and the iPhone 16 series appears to be a major step forward. Previous iPhone 15 models had issues with battery removal and part pairing, resulting in a relatively low 4/10 score from iFixit

Apple Makes Major Reparability Upgrades for iPhone 16

Apple has been working to improve the repairability of its devices, and the iPhone 16 series appears to be a major step forward. Previous iPhone 15 models had issues with battery removal and part pairing, resulting in a relatively low 4/10 score from iFixit. However, Apple seems to have addressed these and other concerns.

Simplified Battery Removal

Apple has adopted a new battery removal method. By applying a low voltage current to a new type of ionic liquid battery adhesive, the battery releases itself from the chassis. This method is faster and safer than the previous pull-apart adhesive.

FaceID Sensor Replaceability

Starting with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, Apple has made changes to the Face ID sensor hardware. The TrueDepth camera can now be transferred from one device to another without compromising security or privacy.

"Repair Assistant" Addresses Part Pairing Issues

The new "Repair Assistant" aims to solve part pairing issues. Customers and professional repair technicians can configure new and used Apple parts directly on the device without having to contact Apple personnel.

Expansion of Repairable Modules

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

On-device Diagnostic Program

Starting with iOS 18, Apple will offer on-device diagnostics for repair, allowing customers to determine which parts need replacement without requiring a second device.

Support for Third-party and Used Apple Parts

Apple has announced new support for third-party and used Apple parts. If a third-party part fails to calibrate on Apple's cloud servers, the iPhone or other device will attempt to activate the part and enable full functionality while displaying a repair history in settings. Used Apple parts will soon be able to be calibrated and will be displayed as "used" parts in the device's repair history.

Future Updates

Future updates will enable TrueTone functionality for third-party displays and battery health status for third-party batteries. Additionally, the LiDAR scanner and front camera will continue to work after module replacement without configuration.

Summary

The iPhone 16 series represents a significant leap forward in repairability, featuring improvements in physical access, part compatibility, and part pairing. We will soon see if the upcoming repairability score from iFixit reflects this.