Key Takeaways
1. The OnePlus 15R has a high repairability score of 8.5 out of 10, making it easier to fix than many other smartphones.
2. Standard Philips screws are used for assembly, allowing users to use common tools for repairs and simplifying access to internal components.
3. The battery features a pull pouch design, enabling easier removal without the risk of damage from prying tools.
4. The glass backplate is secured with adhesive, requiring careful heating to avoid cracking, which can complicate the opening process.
5. Display replacement is labor-intensive, requiring multiple components to be removed before accessing the screen flex cable.
Repairing a broken mobile device today can be both costly and frustrating, but the new OnePlus 15R is set to flip that script with its user-friendly repair design. Recently, PBKreviews performed a teardown of the OnePlus 15R and awarded it a commendable repairability score of 8.5 out of 10.
Accessibility Matters
A key factor contributing to the OnePlus 15R’s impressive score is its accessibility. OnePlus opted for standard Philips screws rather than using proprietary types. This means you probably already own a screwdriver that can open the device since these screws are very common. To gain access to the main board, you only need to unscrew one fastener, making it easier to reach essential components. The cameras are designed modularly, allowing them to detach from the board effortlessly. Even the lens cover can be removed with some heat and a gentle pry, which saves users from having to dismantle the whole phone for a minor cosmetic issue.
Battery Replacement Made Simple
One of the biggest headaches with modern smartphones is replacing the battery, but the OnePlus 15R has tackled this issue with a pull pouch feature. This clever addition enables users to remove the battery more easily without needing risky prying tools that could potentially puncture it. The teardown video reveals that while the battery cables are secured with graphite film and copper tape, the pull pouch significantly simplifies the extraction process compared to batteries that are glued in.
Some Drawbacks Remain
Nevertheless, the OnePlus 15R is not without its flaws, as it still depends on adhesive for the glass backplate rather than screws or clips. To open the phone, you need to use a hairdryer or heat gun to soften the back panel, which poses a risk of cracking the glass if the heat isn’t adequate. Conversely, applying too much heat could damage the internal parts, so a steady hand is essential during these initial steps. Additionally, repairers must delicately peel back fragile strips of graphite film and copper tape to disconnect the battery cables, which adds some difficulty to an otherwise straightforward process.
Labor-Intensive Display Replacement
The most labor-intensive part of the repair process is replacing the display, as accessing the screen is not straightforward. To reach the screen flex cable, you must remove the back plate, screws, bottom cover, and even the subboard before you can get to the cable. After that, you need to heat and carefully pry off the screen, then apply new adhesive to secure the replacement back in place.
PBKreviews’
Source:
Link


Leave a Reply