Apple has informed publications including Tom's Guide and Engadget about some repair-friendly design and policy changes pertaining to the iPhone 16 series.
In addition to the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus having an easier electrically-induced battery removal process, Apple outlined the following changes:
- On-device configuration is now available for Face ID's TrueDepth camera on the iPhone 12 series and newer, eliminating the need to use a Mac
- TrueDepth camera can be swapped between any iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models
- Apple can now repair the LiDAR Scanner on iPhone 16 Pro models while servicing the rear camera module
- iPhone 16 Pro models have internal design changes that provide "simplified access" to unspecified components
All four iPhone 16 models launch on Friday, and teardowns should surface shortly afterwards for a closer look inside of the devices.
Related Roundup: iPhone 16
Related Forum: iPhone
Top Rated Comments
1. Supply chain
2. Managing stock in stores
3. Distribution and maintenance of equipment required to change the battery.
4. Staff training
5. Staff salaries on site
It really annoys me that a friend of mine pays £1500 for their Mercedes to be serviced regularly at a dealer which seems to require absolutely no parts at all yet complains that apple are screwing them because their iPhone 12 finally needs a battery.
I'd also add the huge overhead costs Apple endures. Apparently many here believe Apple employees should not be entitled to yearly salary and benefit increases.
Or that the costs for managing 160,000+ employees, with loads of buildings (many leased at rates that increase over time), maintenance, insurance, and all sorts of supporting costs that don't stay static from year to year.