iPhone 16 expected to be much easier to repair compared to previous models

WEB DESK: Apple has been making it easier to fix its devices, but the iPhone 15 still had some issues, according to iFixit, a repairability site.

They pointed out that the battery was tough to remove, and there was a “parts pairing” problem where you couldn’t replace the LiDAR sensor with one from another phone.

Owing to these issues, iFixit gave the iPhone 15 a low repairability score of only 4 out 10.

However, Apple has released updates about the iPhone 16, showing that they’ve fixed these problems and made other improvements. Apple says it’s trying to balance durability and repairability, with more focus on making repairs easier in their newest phones.

One of the major changes is a new method to remove the battery. Now, by running a small electrical current through a new adhesive, the battery will detach itself from the phone’s casing. This makes battery removal quicker and safer than before, according to Apple.

They’ve also improved the Face ID sensor. Starting with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, users can swap out the TrueDepth Camera without messing up security or privacy. Before, only Apple could make this type of repair.

Apple introduced a new Repair Assistant to help fix parts pairing issues. Now, customers and repair experts can configure Apple parts directly on the device without contacting Apple support. Previously, repair shops had to order parts from Apple and talk to an Apple employee before being able to replace certain parts.

Apple also made some older iPhone models easier to repair. For example, the TrueDepth Camera can now be fixed on the iPhone 12 and later models without needing a Mac. The LiDAR scanner on iPhone Pro models is also easier to service.

Starting with iOS 18, Apple will provide access to on-device diagnostics, so people can figure out which parts need replacing without using a second device.

Apple has also announced support for third-party and used Apple parts. If a third-party part can’t be set up through Apple’s servers, the iPhone will still try to use it.

The device will also show the repair history, noting if used parts were installed. Future updates will allow True Tone for third-party displays and show battery health for third-party batteries.

Overall, the iPhone 16 has made significant strides in repairability, improving how easy it is to access and replace parts. We’ll have to wait and see how iFixit rates the new model.

Read next: Mobile sellers in Pakistan demand Rs100,000 to pre-book iPhone 16 with no exact delivery date