{
  "id": 10791215,
  "title": "AirPods 5 Teardown: Batteries Removable, Case Still Tough",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/29/airpods-5-teardown-batteries-removable-case-still-tough",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-29T21:38:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MacRumors",
    "slug": "macrumors",
    "url": "https://www.macrumors.com/2026/09/29/ifixit-airpods-5-teardown/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "iFixit recently disassembled Apple's AirPods 5 to assess its repairability, and the results show the new AirPods are slightly more repairable than previous models, though still challenging for home users. The AirPods 5 utilize pronged batteries similar to those in the AirPods 3, but not the AirPods 4. These batteries are easily removable using a specialized set of tongs, making the process intuitive. In contrast, the AirPods 3 lacked an accessible way to reach the earbud internals. With the AirPods 5, iFixit was able to access the device using a hair dryer to soften the adhesive and a clamp to hold the earbud steady. The left and right earbuds house distinct batteries with opposite polarity, preventing the interchange of a left AirPod's battery with a right AirPod's. Despite the improved repair score, iFixit deemed the case \"still a disaster\" and difficult to open without causing damage. The company awarded the AirPods 5 a repairability score of 2/10, up from the 0/10 rating given to all earlier versions. Skilled technicians and determined DIY enthusiasts should be able to successfully replace the AirPods batteries with a reasonable success rate.",
  "summary": "Repair site iFixit today took apart Apple's AirPods 5 for one of its traditional teardown videos. It turns out the new AirPods are slightly more repairable than prior models, but it's still not a simple home fix. The ‌AirPods 5‌ use pronged batteries that Apple previously used in the AirPods 3, but not the AirPods 4. The battery can be removed with a \"nifty pair of tongs,\" and iFixit…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}