Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Watch Series 12 in the iFixit test
With the release of the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the Apple Watch Series 12, it’s time once again for the usual iFixit teardown and assessment of the repairability of the new Apple Watches. As most will already suspect: they are still very difficult to disassemble and repair.
In addition, there is a potential problem: The Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the Apple Watch Series 12 do not necessarily comply with the applicable laws regarding the right to repair in some US states such as California, New York, Oregon, etc.
Apple Watch Series 12
The Apple Watch Series 12 scored 4 out of 10 in iFixit’s repairability test – one point better than the Apple Watch Series 11. This is due to the stretchable adhesive used for the battery, which makes removal significantly easier. The manufacturer also used a new, simplified display connector.
However, the watch still needs to be opened via the display, even when charging the battery. This design increases the risk of damaging the display. Another disadvantage of the new connector is that the battery must be removed along with the display, even if only the panel is being replaced.
Apple Watch Ultra 4
The Apple Watch Ultra 4, however, hasn’t improved at all in terms of repairability. To access the battery, the glued-on display must be heated and removed. The four screws on the back only provide access to the sensors, not to the main components or the battery. This process can compromise water resistance.
But that’s not all. iFixit argues that the current state of Apple Watches could violate certain laws regarding the right to repair. For example, Apple doesn’t provide tools, replacement parts, and repair manuals like it does for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This leaves authorized Apple service centers as the only option for repairs.
The batteries could pose the biggest problem here, as they tend to need replacing sooner than any other component. This requires removing the display first, which can damage the panel.
