Introduction

The iPhone 16 may not be hailed as the most revolutionary upgrade in Apple's history, but it has made notable advancements in repairability, responding to long-standing criticisms from consumers. iFixit, a respected repair advocacy site, applauded the iPhone 16 lineup for taking significant steps toward enhanced serviceability, dubbing it a win for both consumers and technicians alike.

Background

In recent years, Apple has faced mounting pressure from consumer advocates over the repair difficulties associated with their devices. Following years of resistance, the tech giant shifted its stance in November 2021, launching its Self Service Repair program. This marked a pivotal moment for the company, as it committed to making parts and repair components more accessible to independent repair shops and consumers, especially across the United States.

iFixit’s Highlights

In a recent blog post, iFixit highlighted three critical upgrades that elevate the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus in terms of repairability.

Improved Battery Adhesive

Firstly, Apple has improved the adhesive used to secure the battery. The new adhesive can be debonded by passing an electrical current through it, which is a stark contrast to the unreliable and brittle strips used in previous models. This innovation not only simplifies battery repairs but also underscores Apple's commitment to user-friendly repairs.

Better Repair Access

Secondly, iFixit praised the iPhone 16's repair access from both the front and back. This change is particularly beneficial as it reduces the risk of damaging the expensive ProMotion OLED display during repairs. While the base iPhone 14 models featured this easier access, the inclusion of it in the Pro models took two years, showcasing a significant advancement in repair design.

Battery Encasing

Lastly, the teardown revealed that the battery of the iPhone 16 Pro is now encased in hard steel, minimizing the risk of damage from accidental slips during repairs—an improvement that could potentially prevent hazardous situations like battery fires. However, unlike its counterpart, the iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t feature the new adhesive, sometimes necessitating a prying tool for battery removal, albeit with the enhanced safety of the hard case.

Repairability Scores

Given these improvements, iFixit awarded the iPhone 16 a repairability score of 7 out of 10, while the iPhone 15 languished with a mere 4 out of 10. This aligns the iPhone 16 with the iPhone 14, both demonstrating Apple's strides toward making their devices more consumer-friendly.

Areas for Improvement

Despite the progress, iFixit suggests there’s still room for improvement. The organization calls for Apple to consider simplifying the types of screws used in the device and making it easier to remove rear panel and display adhesives without the need for heat.

Conclusion

Overall, the iPhone 16's enhanced repairability signifies a positive shift in Apple's approach, hinting at a future where users might find their devices easier to fix, reflecting an industry that increasingly values sustainability and consumer rights.