
The guys over at iFixit have already taken the new iPhone 11 Pro Max apart and now it is the turn of the iPhone 11.
The iPhone 11 is the most affordable of this year’s handsets with prices starting at $699, although it does feature a lot of the hardware that the more expensive handsets have.
As we slowly lift the screen out of the way, our first glimpse inside the iPhone 11 confirms our suspicions: this is an iPhone XR with some iPhone 11 Pro tech inside. Most notably: a new double-decker logic board, never before seen on the mid-size line. Unfortunately, the display is similar to its predecessors in that swapping it without Apple’s special tools disables True Tone—not unexpected, but disappointing nonetheless. But hey, at least the display is still user-swappable.
Key Findings from the Teardown
The teardown of the iPhone 11 by iFixit revealed several interesting aspects about the device’s internal structure and components. One of the most notable discoveries is the new double-decker logic board, which is a significant upgrade from the iPhone XR. This new design allows for more efficient use of space within the device, potentially improving performance and battery life.
Another critical finding is the similarity of the display to its predecessors. While the display is user-swappable, replacing it without Apple’s specialized tools disables the True Tone feature. True Tone adjusts the display’s color balance based on the ambient lighting, providing a more natural viewing experience. The inability to retain this feature after a screen replacement is a downside for those who prefer to repair their devices independently.
The iPhone 11 also features a dual-camera system, which is a step up from the single-camera setup of the iPhone XR. This new system includes a wide and an ultra-wide lens, allowing for more versatile photography options. The improved camera capabilities are one of the significant selling points of the iPhone 11, making it an attractive option for photography enthusiasts on a budget.
Repairability and User Experience
The iPhone 11 scored a 6 out of 10 on iFixit’s repairability scale, where 1 is very hard to repair and 10 is easy to repair. This score indicates that while the iPhone 11 is not the easiest device to repair, it is still more accessible than many other smartphones on the market. The user-swappable display is a positive aspect, even though it comes with the caveat of losing True Tone functionality.
Battery replacement is another area where the iPhone 11 shows some promise. The battery is relatively easy to access and replace, which is good news for users who plan to keep their devices for several years. However, the use of proprietary screws and the need for specialized tools can make the process more challenging for those without the right equipment.
The iPhone 11 also features improved water and dust resistance, rated at IP68. This means the device can withstand being submerged in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes. This added durability is a significant advantage for users who are prone to accidents or who use their phones in challenging environments.
You can find out more details on what iFixit found inside the new iPhone 11 over at their website at the link below. The handset scored 6 out of 10, 1 is very hard to repair and 10 is easy to repair.
Source iFixit
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.