Apple launched this yeariPhone AirThe iPhone 7 is not only the most significant redesign of the iPhone in recent years, but it is also the thinnest iPhone ever, measuring just 5.6mm thick. iFixit's latest teardown video reveals how Apple managed to cram all the necessary components into such a svelte design while maintaining durability and repairability.
To free up space, Apple adopted a new "camera platform" design, partially embedding the logic board into the raised area of the camera module, allowing for a larger battery capacity and reinforcing the structure with a metal casing. This design not only increases internal utilization but also protects the circuit board from bending stress, improving overall durability.
iFixit pointed out that after completely removing the components, the iPhone Air's titanium frame can still be bent by hand, but it is almost difficult to deform after being filled with components, indicating that the internal structure also makes a key contribution to the overall rigidity.
Even more surprising is that despite the iPhone Air's thinner design, it's actually easier to repair. iFixit notes that the iPhone Air's internal components are arranged in a single layer, preventing them from being buried deep and difficult to access. The screen and back cover are secured with snap-on fasteners, virtually eliminating the need for glue. The battery utilizes an adhesive that releases with a low-voltage current, making replacement safer and easier.
Another highlight is the USB-C port, which Apple crafted from 3D-printed titanium alloy to meet the slim design requirements. While the surface isn't as scratch-resistant as the main frame, it's structurally strong enough, and its modular design allows for individual replacements when necessary.
In terms of internal configuration, the iPhone Air is the first iPhone model to be equipped with Apple's in-house C1X 5G network modem, and is paired with the A19 Pro processor and N1 network chip to further enhance overall performance and connectivity. However, the C1X 5G network modem still does not support the higher bandwidth millimeter wave band.
As for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro series models, they maintain cooperation with Qualcomm and use the same Snapdragon X80 5G networking data chip as the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This shows that Apple has not introduced its own networking data chip design into mainstream models as the market speculated. It may be to avoid the self-made networking data chip affecting the user experience of the main sales models.
As for the battery, iFixit verified the market's previous speculation about the design of the MagSafe Battery Pack power bank. Apple directly uses the same 12.26Wh battery as the iPhone Air in this charging accessory, and they can even be used interchangeably, which means that repairs will become easier.
iFixit gave the iPhone Air a high initial repairability score of 7/10, believing that Apple has made progress in reducing parts matching restrictions and providing repair manuals and parts support.
