Report: Apple is developing a new way to make replacing iPhone batteries easier

As legislation in the European Union approaches, Apple is reportedly developing new technology that would make iPhone batteries more replaceable. As reported InformationApple is exploring the use of new “electrically induced adhesive release” technology for battery replacement.

Currently, replacing an iPhone battery requires using pliers to remove the existing battery, which is held in place by adhesive strips. You then need to use a “specialized machine and tray” to put the new battery in place.

The new process uses metal instead of aluminum foil to cover the battery, like The information explain :

The new technology, known as electrically induced adhesive release, involves encasing the battery in metal, rather than aluminum foil as is currently the case. This would dislodge the battery from the chassis by administering a small electrical shock, the people said.

Consumers still have to open the iPhone themselves, which is not an easy process due to the adhesives and screws holding the iPhone’s screen in place.

However, even with this change, Apple will still recommend that iPhone users seek professional help to replace their battery.

If Apple’s development of this new bonding technology goes as planned, it could debut with at least one iPhone 16 model this year. According to the report, it would then extend to all versions of the iPhone 17 next year.

“I would like to see Apple innovate to improve repairability,” said Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, a gadget repair website. “Glue is the scourge of modern device repair, and any strategy to reverse adhesives is welcome. »

Wiens said applying voltage to free the iPhone’s battery is a promising approach because DC power supplies, typically used for testing and charging electronics, are widely available for purchase.

A previous report detailed Apple’s plans to adapt iPhone battery technology in the coming years. In May, Ming-Chi Kuo announced that the iPhone 16 Pro battery would have a metal casing for the first time. The reports said this would be a “prerequisite” for the new bonding process to work.

EU law could force Apple to make iPhone batteries user-replaceable by 2025, although a number of exceptions could ultimately determine whether Apple is covered by the rules.

Photo: Tyler Lastovich on Unsplash