With the release of Apple’s latest iPhone 16 series, we have not only witnessed new highlights in design but also a significant improvement in repairability. However, despite the devices becoming easier to repair, Apple has increased the prices for official repairs, a strategy that has sparked widespread discussion.
Enhancement in Repairability
According to the teardown report from the professional repair organization iFixit, the iPhone 16 series has a repairability score close to the full mark, making it the most easily disassembled, repaired, and reassembled model among the recent generations of iPhones. This improvement is thanks to Apple’s innovation in the body structure design, which allows the back panel glass to be completely removed without the need for violent disassembly. Additionally, the iPhone 16 adopts a brand-new battery technology, with an independent encrypted chip controlling the adhesive, making battery replacement much quicker.
Increase in Official Repair Prices
Despite the enhancement in the repairability of the iPhone 16 series, Apple has quietly raised the repair prices on its official website. For instance, the battery replacement service price for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus remains at 809 yuan, while the repair price for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max has risen to 969 yuan, an increase of 150 yuan compared to the previous generation. This strategy seems to run counter to the improvements in repairability.
Apple’s Repair Strategy
Apple’s strategy may be aimed at encouraging users to purchase the AppleCare+ plan, which can significantly reduce repair costs. According to market reports, the AppleCare+ plan can generate up to 9 billion US dollars in revenue for Apple annually. Furthermore, Apple’s use of new adhesives and steel-shell batteries in the iPhone 16 series may be a response to the latest EU regulations, which require all consumer electronics on sale to provide a design for removable batteries.
Impact on Consumers
For users who have not purchased the AppleCare+ plan, they may turn to third-party repair organizations or self-repair. However, Apple’s introduction of official parts certification in iOS 18.1 may limit the market for non-official repairs. This change could make the AppleCare+ plan a more attractive option for more consumers, especially those who wish to reduce repair costs.
Conclusion
The enhancement in repairability of the Apple iPhone 16 series is a positive development, but the increase in official repair prices and changes in repair strategies may affect consumers’ repair choices. When purchasing an iPhone, considering whether to join the AppleCare+ plan may become an important factor for consumers to weigh.