Apple is making strides to extend the longevity of its devices, particularly focusing on making iPhone batteries and screens easier to replace. This shift is part of a broader initiative aimed at ensuring their products last as long as possible.
Apple has announced several updates designed to enhance the lifespan of its devices. Among these is the expansion of the “self-service repair diagnostics” tool, which allows users to analyze their devices for issues independently. Additionally, Apple has published a new document titled “Longevity, by Design,” detailing how it plans to extend the life of its products. This document underscores Apple’s commitment to creating a superior user experience by designing products that endure, starting from the initial design phase and incorporating predictions of future usage.
In the face of accusations of “planned obsolescence”—the notion that Apple intentionally designs its products to become obsolete quickly—the company has defended its practices. Apple asserts that its devices, particularly iPhones, have a longer lifespan compared to competitors, retaining 40% more value and with hundreds of millions still in use after five years.
One significant area of focus for Apple has been the repairability of its devices. The company has introduced new tools aimed at improving the functionality of repaired devices. Currently, Apple uses a system called parts pairing, where each iPhone is linked to its specific screen and battery, preventing parts from being swapped. This system ensures that components like displays are specifically calibrated for the device they are in.
However, Apple is now easing some of these restrictions. For instance, replacement displays will now support Apple’s True Tone feature, which adjusts to ambient light. Additionally, Apple will provide better battery health metrics for third-party batteries. Despite these improvements, Apple will caution users that True Tone performance might not be fully accurate and that battery health metrics may be less reliable if the replacement batteries are not new.
Innovations in Battery Replacement Technology
In response to impending legislation from the European Union, Apple is reportedly developing a new technology to make iPhone batteries more replaceable. The new technology, known as “electrically induced adhesive debonding,” involves encasing the battery in metal rather than foil. This innovation allows the battery to be dislodged from the chassis by administering a small jolt of electricity.
Currently, replacing an iPhone battery involves removing adhesive strips with tweezers and using a specialized machine to press the new battery into place. The new process, however, aims to simplify this by using metal casings and electrical discharges to release the battery.
While consumers will still need to pry open the iPhone, which remains a challenging task due to the adhesives and screws securing the screen, Apple will continue to recommend professional battery replacements. If the development of this technology proceeds as planned, it could be introduced with at least one iPhone 16 model this year and expanded to all iPhone 17 versions next year.
Industry Response
Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, a gadget repair website, has expressed support for Apple’s new approach. He stated, “I’d love to see Apple innovate toward improved repairability. Glue is the bane of modern device repair, and any strategies that help reverse adhesives are welcome.” Wiens highlighted that using a voltage to release the battery is a promising method, as direct current power supplies, commonly used for electronics testing and charging, are widely available.
Previous reports have indicated that Apple plans to adapt iPhone battery technology over the next several years. Notably, the iPhone 16 Pro’s battery is expected to feature a metal casing, a prerequisite for the new bonding process to work effectively.
Implications of EU Legislation
The European Union legislation, which may require Apple to make iPhone batteries user-replaceable by 2025, has been a driving force behind these developments. However, the final impact of these regulations on Apple will depend on various carveouts and specific requirements that might be imposed.
Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance device longevity and repairability signify a significant shift towards sustainability and consumer empowerment. These initiatives could set new standards in the tech industry, encouraging other manufacturers to follow suit.