When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro range is considerably easier to repair than its predecessor.
To start, it’s now much simpler to remove the battery on the new models. Instead of the old stretch release adhesive, there’s a new ionic liquid adhesive that will let go of the battery when you run a low voltage current (such as through a 9V cell). There’s less risk of damaging the power pack or other components.
You also don’t have to worry about replacing the infrared TrueDepth Camera system that handles Face ID. It’s now possible to swap the part between devices without affecting security or taking the hardware to Apple.
This will help you avoid contacting Apple for help for with a repair on not just the iPhone 16, but also earlier models. A new Repair Assistant lets both technicians and Self Repair Program users set up parts on the device itself, whether they’re new or used.
It’s now an option to configure the TrueDepth Camera on an iPhone 12 or newer without connecting to a Mac. On Pro models, you can service the LiDAR that helps with portraits and augmented reality. And if you need to diagnose parts, you can do so on the iPhone.
On top of this, Apple devices will now try to activate used or third-party components and make full use of them, including unofficial batteries and True Tone-compatible screens. They’ll show up in your device repair history.
Apple has been gradually improving repairability since 2021, when it announced the Self Repair Program. This has included design changes that make products easier to service, such as the iPhone 14’s more accessible front and back glass.
The company hasn’t had much choice in some respects. Countries and states have been pushing for right to repair laws and regulations that require more choices for fixes. Apple has relented on its opposition and has even endorsed some proposed laws, but the change of heart took some time.
The iPhone 16 repair upgrades don’t make it easy for just anyone to service the handsets. However, they could make the difference between trying to rescue a damaged device and either recycling it or throwing it out as e-waste.
