iFixit tears down Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, finds mixed repairability results

iFixit published its teardown of Apple's latest releases: the Series 12 and Ultra 4 Apple Watches. The company's Shahram Mokhtari began by heating the Ultra 4's screen and prying it open using a metal pick tool. He observed that replacing the battery required the removal of the screen, a persisting issue in repairability. The bottom screws only afforded access to the sensor assembly and S11 chip.

Post-screen removal, battery detachment and display disconnection proved relatively easy, provided the first step was executed meticulously. However, no substantial enhancements in repairability were noted. Consequently, the Ultra 4 received a 4/10 rating on iFixit's scale, matching its predecessor. The Series 12 showcased a slight improvement due to the introduction of stretch-release adhesive and a pull tab, facilitating battery removal.

Yet, like the Ultra 4, the Series 12 necessitates the detachment of the glued display for internal access, a significant impediment to repairs. Mokhtari highlighted the tighter tolerances around the Series 12's display, cautioning against potential screen damage due to excessive force. He also pointed out Apple's substitution of the ZIF connector and tape with a more straightforward press connector.

Replacing the screen now also mandates the simultaneous replacement of the battery, a consideration Mokhtari deemed unnecessary if one had reached this point. Despite minor improvements, iFixit awarded the Series 12 a 4/10 score, 1 point higher than its last base-model Apple Watch. In contrast, Google's Pixel Watch 5 secured a 9/10 score, as its display could be extracted using merely two Torx screws and a gasket, and its battery removal required no grappling with adhesive.

Watch iFixit's teardown of the Series 12 and Ultra 4 through the link provided, and catch more Apple news on 9to5Mac's YouTube channel.