Summarize

Simplifying... Inshort

The iPhone 16's battery replacement process is now simpler, as revealed by a teardown.
The old battery, once glued in, can be easily removed by applying an electric current, and the new one just needs pressure to secure.
iFixit's microscopic images show the battery frame's machined ridges, designed for the battery to stick to, highlighting Apple's thoughtful approach to battery replacement.

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iPhone 16 teardown reveals how easy battery replacement is now

By Akash Pandey

Sep 23, 2024

01:23 pm

What's the story

The recently launched iPhone 16 has introduced a unique feature — an electrically debondable adhesive for its battery enclosure. This innovation was revealed during a teardown by iFixit, made possible due to Apple's release of repair manuals on the same day as the phone's launch. The disassembly process also highlighted other features such as a movable camera control button, a flex cable measuring force, and a strategically placed heat sink for the A18 chip's Neural Engine.

Adhesive innovation

Electrically debondable adhesive: A game-changer

The electrically debondable adhesive used in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus' battery enclosure is a significant departure from traditional methods. This new approach was first reported by The Information in June, but its practical application has only now been fully understood. Interestingly, Apple has not implemented this adhesive across all its models yet. The process for using this innovative adhesive aligns with the debonding-on-demand demonstration provided by adhesives giant Tesa and shared by The Verge.

Procedure

A look at the battery replacement process

The battery replacement process begins with disconnecting the battery from the board. An electric current is then applied from a power source, such as a 9-volt battery for 90 seconds. This causes the previously glued-in battery to slip out easily. To secure the new battery in place, only pressure is required. Apple notes that over time, more voltage (up to 30V) may be needed. iFixit found that a 20V current was sufficient to undo the bond in just five seconds.

Information

iFixit's microscopic examination of the battery frame

iFixit also provided microscopic images of the frame that holds the battery in place. These images reveal machined ridges designed to provide a surface for the battery to adhere to. This detailed examination offers further insight into Apple's approach toward battery replacement in iPhone 16.