Tag: Repairability

  • 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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  • Galaxy A56 Offers Awesome Intelligence but Is Harder to Repair

    Galaxy A56 Offers Awesome Intelligence but Is Harder to Repair

    Samsung’s Galaxy A56 is set to arrive soon. Although it looks to be a strong mid-range smartphone, there’s a small downside: it’s a bit trickier to fix than its predecessor, the Galaxy A55. Based on France’s repairability scoring system (which does exist), the A56 received a score of 8.4 out of 10, while the Galaxy A55 achieved 8.5. The difference is minor, but it’s noticeable.

    Repair Challenges

    What makes the A56 harder to repair? The score is divided into various categories. The A56 lost points in the “ease of disassembly” area, earning a 5.0, contrasted with the A55’s 5.8. This slight decline brings the A56 back to the same level as the Galaxy A54, which also received an 8.4 in the assessment.

    Similarities with Other Models

    Interesting tidbit: the Galaxy A36, which is launching around the same time as the A56, also has an 8.4 score. This suggests that the internal designs could be very alike, if not exactly the same, between these two devices. The previous year’s models also appear nearly indistinguishable from one another.

    Software Advancements

    The A56 excels in one area: software. Samsung has recently trademarked the phrase “Awesome Intelligence” in Europe, the US, and South Korea. This suggests that new AI features are on the way for the Galaxy A series, with the A56 being the first to enjoy them.

    The Exynos 1580 chipset, which will power the A56, is said to be more than capable of handling at least basic AI tasks like on-device text summarization and simple photo editing, such as object removal.

    In addition, GalaxyClub reports that Samsung will provide six years of Android updates for the A56, making it the most sustainable Galaxy A phone ever. This is a significant point for anyone who prefers to keep their phone for an extended period.

    Launch and Pricing

    The new A series devices are anticipated to launch around mid-March 2025. As for the price, it’s likely to remain similar to previous models. So, expect a price range between €450 and €500 for the base model.

    Galaxy A56 Offers Awesome Intelligence but Is Harder to Repair
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  • OnePlus Nord 4 Repair Risky: Scores 4/10 on Repairability

    OnePlus Nord 4 Repair Risky: Scores 4/10 on Repairability

    The newly launched OnePlus Nord 4 stands out as the first 5G phone featuring an aluminum unibody design. This choice not only provides a more robust feel but also potentially better impact resistance. However, it complicates independent repair efforts.

    Challenges with Disassembly

    Tech teardown expert PBKReviews recently explored the internals of the Nord 4, facing significant challenges. The video demonstration shows that the rugged metal back, while offering durability, is extremely hard to open, complicating access to the core components.

    Even the initial task of removing the top glass cover proved difficult, despite some success using a plastic tool. The real struggle came with the metal back, which required metal tools, presenting a higher risk of scratching or denting the phone’s sleek aluminum exterior.

    Durability and Design

    On the brighter side, the aluminum body appears more robust than the common glass-backed smartphones. The Oasis Green shell successfully resisted bending attempts, despite its slim design. Additionally, the phone’s IP65 dust and water resistance rating indicates it can handle minor spills and dust exposure.

    Repairability Concerns

    Not all news is negative for DIY repairs. The Nord 4 features a 5,500mAh battery housed in an adhesive pouch, making it easier to remove and replace. Furthermore, replacing the high-end Aqua Touch 120Hz AMOLED display might be feasible, though caution is advised due to a ribbon connector located in the lower left corner.

    Despite these positive aspects, PBKReviews gave the Nord 4 a low repairability score of 4/10, even lower than the recently reviewed CMF Phone 1. While the metal construction enhances durability, it appears that independent repairs on the Nord 4 will be both time-consuming and risky.

    Overall, the OnePlus Nord 4 offers a sturdy build and some user-friendly repair features, but its challenging disassembly process might deter those looking to conduct independent repairs.

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