Last year, iFixit gave the iPhone 14 the highest repairability score in several years for an iPhone, a solid 7 out of 10. This was due to the device’s ease of opening, both on the front and back. It was believed to be a model for future iPhones. However, iFixit has recently changed its tune.
iFixit has now reduced the repairability score for the iPhone 14 down to a meager 4 out of 10. They claim that the previous score was primarily hardware-focused, as the device was easy to disassemble. But now, repairing the iPhone 14 has become more difficult and complex due to its software.
The problem stems from the change in parts. If you take your device to a regular repair shop, they will have to order the specific components directly from Apple. Furthermore, they must also go through Apple’s approval system to confirm the replacement of those serial-specific parts. Failure to use authorized and verified components may result in warning messages and potential functionality issues.
While these steps may seem reasonable from a smartphone manufacturer’s standpoint, iFixit argues that many repair shops have found the approval process within Apple’s app system to be excessively cumbersome. Consequently, they deem it not worth offering repair services for the iPhone 14. This is why the device’s repairability score had to be lowered.
iFixit specifically mentions the increase in the number of warning messages that appear when replacing parts in the iPhone 14. Previously, it was mainly limited to Touch ID or Face ID replacements. Now, it includes components such as the battery, screen, front camera, rear camera, wireless charging, and Taptic Engine.
In light of these challenges, iFixit advises against attempting DIY repairs or opting for non-Apple authorized repair centers. Their repairability score of 4 out of 10 is a clear indication that they do not recommend self-repairs for this device. However, if Apple updates the software to address these issues, the score may change once again.
TLDR: iFixit initially gave the iPhone 14 a high repairability score but has since reduced it due to difficulties in replacing parts and navigating Apple’s approval system for repairs. They advise against self-repairs and emphasize the need for authorized repair centers. Any changes in Apple’s software updates may potentially affect the repairability score in the future. Source: iFixit via IGN.
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