Apple has taken a significant step towards promoting repairability by offering self-service repair parts for its latest iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models. This move allows users to replace components like cameras, displays, and back glass at a lower cost than professional repairs. This move is part of Apple’s commitment to increased repairability and follows recent price hikes for battery replacements on the iPhone 16 Pro models.
Apple has made significant improvements to the repairability of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, simplifying the disassembly process and making key components more accessible. iFixit’s teardown reveals a redesigned chassis, interchangeable camera modules, and a fully enclosed battery, but also notes a potential 5G signal strength reduction and a less convenient battery removal process on the Pro Max.
Google is exploring ways to make its Pixel Watch lineup more repairable, addressing concerns about e-waste and offering consumers more repair options. While a timeline is unclear, this move could signal a shift towards greater sustainability in the tech industry.
The Google Pixel Watch 3, a stylish and expensive smartwatch, faces criticism for its lack of repairability and limited repair options. Unlike other major smartwatch brands like Apple and Samsung, Google offers minimal repair support outside of the US, leaving many customers vulnerable to costly replacements or unusable devices after even minor damage.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers improvements in repairability with an easier battery replacement, but its complex internal design still presents a significant challenge for most users. iFixit’s teardown reveals a 5/10 repairability score, highlighting the need for experienced hands for anything beyond basic repairs.
Framework, the modular laptop manufacturer, has ambitious plans to expand beyond its current product line. CEO Nirav Patel hints at additional product categories in the future, ranging from equally challenging to smaller and more streamlined options. Framework’s roadmap suggests continued development and support for new products over multiple years, emphasizing repairability as a core principle. The company’s partnerships with startups and investors point to potential collaborations in its future endeavors.
