Tag: iFixit

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown

    Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown

    Key Takeaways

    1. iFixit downgraded the repairability score of the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED to 4 points, and the new Nintendo Switch 2 received a score of 3 points.
    2. The Joy-Con 2s are easier to open, but the glued battery complicates replacement; the Nintendo Switch 2 uses traditional joysticks, raising questions about drift issues.
    3. Nintendo missed the chance to use TMR sticks, which could have fixed the drift problem permanently.
    4. Repairing the console is difficult due to hidden screws and tough adhesive, making battery replacement challenging.
    5. Key components like USB-C ports and the game module slot are soldered to the mainboard, and Nintendo has not provided spare parts for repairs.

    iFixit has recently downgraded the repairability score of the Nintendo Switch from 8 to 4 points. The Nintendo Switch OLED shares the same low rating of 4 points. Meanwhile, the newly announced Nintendo Switch 2 has been given a score of just 3 out of 10, as detailed in the video linked below.

    Repair Challenges

    The Joy-Con 2s are fairly simple to open, however, the tiny battery is glued into the casing, complicating the battery swap process. The original Nintendo Switch gained a bad reputation for Joy-Con drift, prompting Nintendo to provide free repairs. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates traditional joysticks. It’s still unclear if drift will be a major issue like it was before, especially since both the Sony PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X utilize similar analog stick technology, yet experience much less drift than the Switch.

    Missed Opportunities

    It’s unfortunate that Nintendo opted not to implement TMR sticks, which could have permanently resolved this issue. Opening the console itself is significantly tougher than accessing the Joy-Con, as there are four screws that are hidden beneath stubborn stickers, which only become visible after removing the magnetically attached Joy-Con. Once inside the console, multiple connectors and screws must be loosened to extract the heat shield and microSD Express card reader from the main housing.

    Complicated Repair Process

    The battery replacement is possible, but it is secured to the housing with tough adhesive, making the process much harder. Additionally, both USB-C ports and the game module slot are soldered directly to the mainboard, rendering it nearly impossible for users to repair or swap them out. Compounding the issue is the fact that Nintendo still has not provided any spare parts for these devices.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown
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  • iFixit Ranks Original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED Models

    iFixit Ranks Original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. iFixit has updated the repairability scores for the original Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite, reducing them to half of their original ratings.
    2. The Nintendo Switch’s repairability score dropped from 8 to 4, while the Switch Lite’s score decreased from 6 to 3, reflecting its shortcomings compared to newer handheld devices.
    3. Key identified flaws include the glued battery, lack of official repair guides, and absence of original replacement parts for the Switch and its variants.
    4. Newer gaming handhelds, like the Legion Go and ROG Ally, are highlighted as having better modular designs, making them easier to repair.
    5. iFixit suggests that Nintendo could improve repairability scores by providing a repair manual and original replacement parts, with the upcoming Switch 2 likely to be assessed soon.

    With only a few days remaining until the Nintendo Switch 2 launches, iFixit has updated its repairability ratings for the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch OLED, and the Switch Lite. The new scores are exactly half of what the three consoles initially received, and iFixit elaborated on this change in a recent blog entry.

    Changes in Repairability Scores

    Back in 2017, the Nintendo Switch had a repairability score of 8. However, since then, a significant amount of time has elapsed, during which many new handheld devices have been introduced. iFixit has pointed out that its criteria for scoring has also changed and improved, which has highlighted the Switch’s shortcomings more clearly.

    Identified Flaws

    Among these shortcomings are the glued battery, the absence of official repair guides, and the lack of original replacement parts. When compared to newer gaming handhelds, the Nintendo Switch and its variants lag behind. Devices like the Legion Go (currently priced at $538.78 on Amazon), ROG Ally, and Playdate feature a more modular setup, allowing for easy storage replacement and access to spare parts.

    The Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED have now received a repairability rating of 4, while the Switch Lite’s score has decreased from 6 to 3. These updated scores are believed to better represent their repairability in relation to competing handhelds.

    Possibility of Re-evaluation

    iFixit mentions that there is still potential for the Nintendo Switch to undergo another evaluation. In fact, it could potentially gain two additional points if Nintendo were to issue a repair manual and provide original replacement parts.

    Nintendo has the opportunity to demonstrate improvements with the upcoming Switch 2. iFixit has already indicated that the new console will be assessed very soon, making it interesting to see what advances Nintendo has made regarding repairability.

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  • iFixit Teardown: Sony WH-1000XM6 Easy Repair Insights

    iFixit Teardown: Sony WH-1000XM6 Easy Repair Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones feature a new metal hinge for improved sturdiness compared to the previous model.
    2. Ear pads are secured with clips, allowing for easy removal without tools.
    3. Accessing the internal components requires only five screws and one plug disconnection.
    4. The battery can be replaced easily with just two screws, avoiding the use of glue.
    5. Sony does not sell spare parts, so users may need to source replacements from another set of WH-1000XM6 headphones.

    The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are claimed to be much sturdier than the previous model. This is mainly due to a new metal hinge replacing the often faulty one in the last version. However, even the toughest Bluetooth headphones will eventually need a battery replacement, which can be quite tricky for many models.

    Easy Repairs Inside

    Recently, iFixit managed to take apart these over-ear headphones and discovered several unexpected improvements that simplify repairs. Instead of magnets, the ear pads are secured with clips, making them easy to remove without any tools. To get inside each ear cup, one only needs to unscrew five screws and disconnect one plug. The driver can then be taken out of its housing by simply unplugging the cable, allowing for a quick replacement in just a few minutes.

    Convenient Battery Access

    Even more interesting is that the 3.99 Wh battery in the right ear cup is fixed to the housing with merely two screws, rather than glue. This design not only makes battery removal easier but also allows for simple reattachment without needing to apply glue again. Additionally, components like the mainboard, the 3.5 mm headphone jack, and the USB-C port can all be replaced with ease. Unfortunately, Sony does not provide spare parts for sale, leaving users with the option of using parts from another set of WH-1000XM6 headphones.

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  • Sony WH-1000XM6 Review: Improved Repairability Over WH-1000XM5

    Sony WH-1000XM6 Review: Improved Repairability Over WH-1000XM5

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony WH-1000XM6 features 12 microphones, enhancing noise-cancelling capabilities but maintains the same battery life as the WH-1000XM5 at 30 hours.
    2. The battery size has been reduced by 12.5%, from 4.56 Wh in the XM5 to 3.99 Wh in the XM6.
    3. The design improvements include replacing adhesive tape with screws for better assembly and easier access to high-wear components.
    4. The WH-1000XM6 is more repairable than its predecessor, but users cannot currently replace internal components due to the lack of available spare parts.
    5. Sony has not released a repair manual or replacement parts for the WH-1000XM6 or its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5.

    The Sony WH-1000XM6 (currently priced at $448 on Amazon) has been available for a few weeks now, having made its official entrance on May 15. This gave iFixit the chance to examine Sony’s newest over-ear wireless headphones and uncover their inner workings.

    Microphone and Noise Cancelling Features

    As anticipated, Sony has added four more microphones, bringing the total to twelve in the WH-1000XM6. While the company has enhanced noise-cancelling capabilities from previous models, the same cannot be said for battery life. Officially, the WH-1000XM6 is rated for 30 hours of use, which is the same as the WH-1000XM5, even though it features the new Processor QN3 technology. The reason for this seems to be that Sony has opted for a battery that is 12.5% smaller, decreasing from 4.56 Wh in the XM5 to 3.99 Wh in the XM6.

    Improvements in Design

    On the bright side, there are some commendable hardware upgrades between the two versions. For instance, Sony has swapped out the adhesive tape that secured the battery in the XM5s for two screws and a compact housing. Moreover, only five screws are used for each ear cup, which are also held in place by clips. Additionally, high-wear parts such as the 3.5 mm jack and USB Type-C cable are placed on modular boards, making them easier to access.

    Repairability Concerns

    In summary, the WH-1000XM6 is designed to be more repairable compared to its predecessor. However, users currently cannot replace any components inside these latest headphones if they happen to fail or break. At this time, Sony has not released a repair manual or begun selling replacement parts. To make matters worse, the WH-1000XM5 never saw the release of spare parts, even though a repair manual was listed by Sony. For more details, check out the video from iFixit below and our launch article on the WH-1000XM6.

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  • M4 MacBook Air Teardown by iFixIt: Complete Repair Guide

    M4 MacBook Air Teardown by iFixIt: Complete Repair Guide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The M4 MacBook Air closely resembles its predecessors, the M3 and M2 models, in design.
    2. iFixIt awarded the M4 MacBook Air a repairability score of 5 out of 10, indicating moderate ease of repair.
    3. Key repair-friendly features include an accessible battery and replaceable ports, but the fused keyboard poses a challenge.
    4. The System Configuration tool is necessary for proper display functionality, limiting repairs to certified technicians or Apple’s Self Service Repair.
    5. While the laptop is generally easy to repair for common issues, Apple’s replacement part policies complicate right-to-repair efforts.

    The M4 MacBook Air has undergone a teardown, revealing it closely resembles its predecessors.

    A recent teardown video and report from iFixIt illustrates that Apple has not deviated from its usual design choices with the latest model. The M4 MacBook Air, currently priced at $999 on Amazon, was fully taken apart by iFixIt and appears nearly identical to the M3 MacBook Air, which itself mirrored the M2 MacBook Air’s design.

    Repairability Score

    iFixIt awarded the laptop a repairability score of 5 out of 10. Notable features include the presence of a repair manual, a battery that is easy to access (along with its connector), and ports that can be disconnected and replaced without much hassle. On the downside, the M4 Air has a keyboard that is fused, making it tough, if not impossible, to change. The Touch ID sensor is also a pain to reach, and there’s a major issue affecting screen replacements.

    System Configuration Tool

    The main obstacle is Apple’s System Configuration tool, which is required for the laptop to recognize a new display and activate its full features. In short, if a display is not installed by an Apple Certified Repair Technician or through Apple’s Self Service Repair program, the laptop will turn off some display capabilities like True Tone.

    Overall, the MacBook Air is relatively easy to repair, especially concerning components that typically wear out over time, such as the battery and ports. Nevertheless, it remains a challenge for right-to-repair advocates due to Apple’s policies on replacement parts.

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  • Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo on Easy Mode in Repair Video

    Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo on Easy Mode in Repair Video

    Key Takeaways

    1. Alarmo features an alarm sequence inspired by Mario games and allows users to switch to themes from other Nintendo titles, like The Legend of Zelda.
    2. The clock includes a 24GHz mmWave radar for wireless functionality and gesture control, with easy access to internal components using tri-wing screwdrivers.
    3. There is ample space between components, making it easier to replace parts like the 2.4-inch LCD screen and Hall sensor.
    4. The removable CMOS battery (CR2032) is designed for clock memory and settings, making it easy to identify for replacement.
    5. Silicone cases and screen protectors for the Alarmo are available on Amazon at reasonable prices.

    Today is March 10, 2025, often referred to as MAR.10, or simply Mario Day. In celebration of this special occasion, iFixit has chosen to dissect a unique alarm clock that features one of Nintendo’s beloved characters on its display.

    Alarmo’s Features

    The Sound Clock: Alarmo offers a fun way to wake up, using an alarm sequence inspired by Mario games. Users can also switch it up with themes from other popular titles, like those from the Legend of Zelda series. The challenge is to get out of bed before a character like Bowser appears on its round screen.

    Technical Specifications

    This alarm clock is equipped with a 24GHz mmWave radar, which allows for wireless functionality and gesture control. Accessing the internal components is surprisingly straightforward, especially if you have the special tri-wing screwdrivers that Nintendo favors.

    There’s a notable amount of space between the components inside the Alarmo, which could make it easier to replace parts like its 2.4-inch LCD screen and the Hall sensor located on the large dial at the top.

    Battery and Longevity

    An important feature of the Alarmo is its removable CMOS battery, which is used for clock memory and storing settings. This battery is labeled as a CR2032 in its holder, making it simple to identify when it needs replacement.

    Overall, the Sound Clock: Alarmo appears to be quite “Princess Peach-worthy” for long-term use.

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  • Galaxy S25 Ultra Achieves Highest iFixit Score in a Decade

    Galaxy S25 Ultra Achieves Highest iFixit Score in a Decade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features significant design improvements compared to its predecessors, despite resembling the iPhone.
    2. The battery release mechanism has been enhanced, but the S Pen lost Bluetooth functionality from the S24 Ultra.
    3. The 6.9-inch OLED display is challenging to remove, making repairs difficult unless the display is already damaged.
    4. iFixit rated the S25 Ultra as “the most repair-friendly Samsung device we’ve seen in a decade.”
    5. The phone received a preliminary repair score of 5 out of 10 due to limited spare parts and restrictions on accessing user data.

    The Galaxy S25 Ultra might be seen as just another phone that resembles the iPhone more than any of its predecessors. However, according to vloggers like iFixit’s Shahram Mokhtari, the improvements in its design are more significant than that.

    Battery Mechanism and S Pen Changes

    The team now agrees with others, such as PhoneRepairGuru, that the “battery release mechanism” has seen considerable enhancements, even though they share JerryRigEverything’s opinion that the S Pen has become less functional due to the loss of Bluetooth features found in the S24 Ultra, which is currently priced at around $890 on Amazon.

    Display Challenges and Repairability

    On the flip side, the S25 Ultra’s 6.9-inch OLED display with Corning Gorilla Armor 2, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, is said to be quite a “nightmare” to take off. iFixit suggests that unless the display is already damaged, it’s best not to attempt removal. Interestingly, this seems to be the only way to access the phone’s larger vapor chamber.

    iFixit has now labeled the latest One UI 7 flagship as “the most repair-friendly Samsung device we’ve seen in a decade.”

    Repair Score and Durability Issues

    Nonetheless, it only received a preliminary score of 5 out of 10 because of the company’s “aggressive anti-repair tactics.” These include a limited availability of spare parts and restrictions on services to access user data.

    So far, the S25 Ultra has received a mix of reviews concerning its durability and performance.

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  • iFixit Offers Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Parts, Display Price High

    iFixit Offers Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Parts, Display Price High

    Google has recently begun offering original spare parts for its Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL models, and now you can also find spare parts for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold at iFixit’s online shop.

    Pricing for Spare Parts

    Customers can order a new USB-C port for $59.99, while replacing the rear cover will cost $129.99. For those needing a rear triple camera, the price is $249.99, and a front camera is available for $79.99. The two batteries are sold separately, making the total cost for replacing both around $135. If you’re looking to replace the outer screen, it’s priced at $189.99.

    Fix Kits and Repair Instructions

    As is common with iFixit, all these spare parts can also be bought as part of a “Fix Kit.” This kit comes with all the necessary tools for an additional fee of about $7. Furthermore, iFixit provides detailed step-by-step instructions on how to perform the repairs, including estimates on the difficulty and time required for each repair job.

    Complexity of Screen Replacement

    Replacing the foldable main display is, unsurprisingly, the most challenging task. According to iFixit, customers should allocate three to four hours for this repair, as the smartphone needs to be mostly disassembled to take out the OLED panel. The price for this replacement part is $1,199.99, which is comparable to the cost of a new Apple iPhone 16 Pro. Before making a purchase for such a pricey replacement part, it’s highly advised to go through the repair guide to assess whether you feel capable of handling such a complicated repair task.

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  • iFixit Teardown Reveals Apple Watch Series 10 Lacks Upgrades

    iFixit Teardown Reveals Apple Watch Series 10 Lacks Upgrades

    The Apple Watch Series 10 features a case that is a bit larger and thinner compared to the Series 9. Nevertheless, the modifications in design and functionalities are rather minor, and the overall construction of the smartwatch remains almost the same as its earlier version.

    Inside the Smartwatch

    To access the internal components of the smartwatch, one must first remove the display from the case. The screen is secured using a substantial amount of adhesive. Once you take off the display, it becomes impossible to put it back on; the display cable is arranged in a manner that requires almost complete disassembly of the smartwatch to swap the screen out.

    Battery and Other Components

    Fortunately, the battery and the Taptic Engine can be swapped out fairly easily once the case is opened. However, the mainboard, which includes the processor, RAM, and storage, must be replaced as a single unit, similar to the glass back and all sensors present in the smartwatch. It’s almost funny how little has changed between the teardown of the Apple Watch Series 10 and the first-generation model: even after ten years, Apple has made only slight adjustments to the smartwatch’s design.

    Repair Rating

    iFixit has rated the Apple Watch Series 10 with a repair score of 3 out of 10, indicating that the design modifications for easier repairs are significantly overdue. Apple itself provides a battery replacement service priced at $99. For any other type of damage, Apple suggests a complete replacement, which can range from $299 to $399 depending on the model.

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  • iFixit Ends Samsung Repair Hub Citing Misaligned Repairability Goals

    iFixit Ends Samsung Repair Hub Citing Misaligned Repairability Goals

    After two years of launching the Samsung Repair Hub together with the company, iFixit is now concluding this collaboration. Starting next month, they will cease to be Samsung’s designated third-party distributor for parts and tools.

    Samsung Galaxy A55 Teardown

    iFixit stated, “Our goal was to set the gold standard for repair documentation and empower local independent repair businesses with the necessary tools and parts, all while keeping Galaxy devices operational.”

    Samsung Reportedly Didn’t Want to Support Local Repair Shops

    However, iFixit has been unable to achieve their objectives. They argue that the high prices of repair parts and tools have led users to opt for replacing their devices instead of repairing them. Samsung hasn't been cooperative in aiding local repair shops. Additionally, Samsung has not provided official parts for its recent models since the Galaxy S22.

    As a result, iFixit is terminating its partnership with Samsung after two years of effort. They noted that Samsung’s repairability approach did not align with their own. The following changes will occur:

    • Starting June 2024, iFixit will no longer be Samsung’s designated third-party distributor for parts and tools.
    • Beginning next month, the limit of seven Samsung parts per repair shop per quarter will be removed.
    • Existing information on iFixit will remain, but there will be no new collaboration with Samsung to develop manuals.
    • iFixit will continue selling parts and repair kits for Samsung devices, sourcing OEM parts when available and indicating clearly whether parts are original or aftermarket, similar to their approach with Apple repair parts.

    Samsung has responded to a request for comment, essentially affirming their desire to maintain control over the process.

    Here’s what they said: “Samsung is committed to providing quality, accessible device care to our customers with flexible options to suit their needs, including walk-in, mail-in, and ‘We Come to You’ services. For those interested in our self-repair program, we offer Samsung-certified parts, tools, and information for our qualified products in one convenient location: SamsungParts.com, powered by Encompass. We’re proud of the work we’ve done with iFixit. We can’t comment further on partnership details at this time.”

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