The iPhone 16 series has earned the highest repairability score of any iPhone, thanks to several groundbreaking changes in its design. Repair specialists at iFixit have praised Apple for making the new models more accessible for repairs, introducing enhancements that simplify component access and improve overall safety. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the iPhone 16 lineup a repair-friendly device and how these changes impact users and technicians alike.
A New Standard for Battery Safety
One of the most significant upgrades in the iPhone 16 lineup is the switch from soft pouch batteries to hard cell batteries. This shift reduces the risk of accidental punctures, which can lead to hazardous situations like battery fires. According to iFixit, “Hard cell batteries won’t get punctured as easily by tools during repairs, greatly reducing the risk of fire or damage.”
This change not only makes the repair process safer but also adds a layer of durability to the device. With these reinforced batteries, even those performing DIY repairs can handle components with less worry about damaging the battery.
Revolutionary Adhesive Technology
Apple has introduced a clever new adhesive that secures the battery in place but can be removed with a small electrical current, significantly improving repair accessibility. iFixit highlighted how this innovation simplifies battery replacements: “The new adhesive can be debonded quickly, using a current passed through it, making battery swaps easier than ever.”
This new approach eliminates the need for harsh solvents or excessive force when removing batteries, streamlining the repair process for technicians and hobbyists alike.
Dual Access Design
For the first time, iFixit’s teardown confirmed that iPhone 16 Pro models now feature the ability to be disassembled from both the front and the back. Initially introduced in the iPhone 14 base model, this feature now extends to the Pro models, making it easier to access specific components for repairs.
Being able to open the device from either side offers flexibility in how repairs are performed, saving time and reducing the risk of damaging parts while attempting to reach certain components. iFixit referred to these improvements as “big leaps for repairkind,” enabling more consistent and repeatable repairs.
Apple’s “Repair Assistant” Program
Apple’s commitment to improving repair experiences extends beyond hardware. The new “Repair Assistant” feature, which debuted alongside the iPhone 16, provides step-by-step guidance for technicians, helping them ensure proper parts calibration and pairing. iFixit had previously tested the feature on the iPhone 15 series and found it promising but still in its early stages. With the iPhone 16, however, the Repair Assistant worked flawlessly, offering a seamless one-click process to pair and calibrate all components.
This system also benefits DIY-ers, allowing them to repair their own devices with greater confidence. However, iFixit warned that the Repair Assistant might not be compatible with third-party components, potentially causing problems for those using aftermarket parts or buying secondhand devices with unknown repair histories.
Improved Efficiency in Battery Debonding
Another highlight from the iFixit teardown is the speed at which the iPhone 16 battery casing can be debonded. Apple’s repair guide for technicians shows that using a standard 9v battery can remove the casing in approximately 90 seconds. However, iFixit found that using a 12v battery cut the time down to just 60 seconds.
This innovation underscores Apple’s focus on efficiency, making repairs quicker and more accessible, especially for those handling multiple devices.
New Camera Control Activator
In addition to improvements in repairability, iFixit discovered a hidden upgrade to the new Camera Control activator in the iPhone 16. While the specifics of this change remain under wraps, it adds another layer of intrigue to the device’s inner workings. With such attention to detail, it’s clear that Apple is not just focused on aesthetics but also functionality and repairability.
A Bright Future for iPhone Repairs
With these advancements, the iPhone 16 series sets a new bar for repairability, receiving a score of 7 out of 10 from iFixit—significantly higher than its predecessor, the iPhone 15, which scored a 4 out of 10. Apple’s blend of hardware innovation and software support, through features like Repair Assistant, ensures that future repairs will be faster, safer, and more efficient. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional technician, the iPhone 16 is a device designed with you in mind.
