Apple launched their new iPad last week, and the device comes with an almost identical design to the iPad 5 that it replaces. The team from iFixit has decided to take the latest iPad apart to find out what was inside the device and to evaluate its repairability.
Design and Internal Components
The new iPad, while visually similar to its predecessor, features some updated internal components. The teardown by iFixit revealed that the device houses an A10 Fusion chip, which is a significant upgrade from the A9 chip found in the iPad 5. This new processor promises better performance and efficiency, making the device more capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking.
Additionally, the iPad includes a 2GB RAM module, which is the same as the previous model. The battery capacity remains unchanged at 32.9 Wh, ensuring similar battery life to the iPad 5. The display assembly, however, is not laminated, which means there is a noticeable gap between the glass and the LCD. This design choice makes the screen more prone to damage but easier to replace if cracked.
Repairability and Challenges
iFixit also looked at how easy the latest iPad is to repair. Apple’s devices have a reputation for being difficult to repair, often scoring low on the iFixit repair index. The company grades devices on a scale of 1 to 10, where one means that a device is very difficult to repair and repairs should only be attempted by professionals, and 10 means that the device is fairly easy to repair for the average person.
The latest iPad scored a low 2 out of 10 on the iFixit repair index. This score indicates that the device is quite difficult to repair. One of the main reasons for this low score is the excessive use of adhesive to secure components like the battery and display. This makes it challenging to open the device without causing damage. Furthermore, the Lightning connector is soldered to the logic board, complicating repairs for one of the most commonly damaged parts.
Another challenge highlighted by iFixit is the difficulty in replacing the screen. The non-laminated display, while easier to replace in theory, is still held in place by strong adhesive. This makes the process of removing and replacing the screen risky and time-consuming. Additionally, the use of proprietary screws and connectors means that specialized tools are required for even the most basic repairs.
Despite these challenges, there are some positive aspects to the iPad’s design from a repairability standpoint. For instance, the battery is not soldered to the logic board, which means it can be replaced independently, albeit with some difficulty due to the adhesive. Also, the modularity of certain components, such as the camera and speakers, allows for easier replacement if they become damaged.
In conclusion, while the new iPad offers improved performance and maintains a familiar design, it remains a challenging device to repair. The low repairability score from iFixit highlights the difficulties faced by anyone attempting to fix the device themselves. For those interested in learning more about the teardown and the specific components found inside the new iPad, you can visit iFixit’s detailed report at the link below.
Source iFixit
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