Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4: 4/10 Repairability Rating

Recently, iFixit conducted a teardown of the latest Apple Watch models, the Series 12 and Ultra 4, giving them a repairability score of 4 out of 10. This evaluation highlights that while the Ultra 4 has not seen changes in its design regarding repairability, the Series 12 has incorporated some modest improvements that ease access to certain components.

One major issue with the Ultra 4 is the amount of adhesive used between the casing and the display, complicating the opening of the device. To access the battery, the display must be removed, which increases the risk of damaging the display cable during the opening process. This is bad news for users considering repairing their watch, as the difficulty in opening can lead to additional damage.

On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 12 has implemented a pull tab for the adhesive holding the battery, representing an improvement compared to previous models. Additionally, the removal of the ZIF connector simplifies repairs, suggesting that the company is making some efforts to facilitate the repair process. However, it is still necessary to remove the display to access the battery and vice versa, which remains a challenge.

iFixit's rating not only reflects the difficulty in repairing these devices but also raises questions about sustainability and the longevity of Apple products. With growing environmental concerns, the ability to repair devices has become an important factor for many consumers.