**iFixit Teardown Shows Apple’s Thinnest iPhone Is Surprisingly Repairable**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025*
Apple’s latest release, the iPhone Air, is its thinnest smartphone yet, measuring just 5.6mm thick. Renowned repair expert iFixit recently performed a detailed teardown of the device, revealing a design that balances extreme thinness with an unexpectedly high level of repairability.
### Innovative Design Meets Repairability
The iPhone Air represents the biggest redesign in the iPhone lineup in years. This teardown highlights Apple’s innovative engineering to pack all essential components into such a slim form factor without sacrificing durability or serviceability.
### Camera “Plateau” Integrates Logic Board
To accommodate internal parts within the ultra-thin chassis, Apple introduced a clever “camera plateau” design. This design integrates part of the logic board into the camera bump, freeing up space for a large metal-encased battery.
This strategic placement not only optimizes space but also helps protect the logic board from bending stress, enhancing the device’s durability against accidental flexing.
### Durable Titanium Frame with Plastic Gaps
The iPhone Air features a titanium frame that resists flexing exceptionally well. However, when stripped of its internal components during teardown, the chassis is more prone to bending due to plastic gaps incorporated to reduce cellular interference.
Whether these structural weak points will impact the device’s long-term durability remains to be seen.
### Battery Compatibility Confirmed
iFixit’s teardown also confirms earlier speculation regarding Apple’s MagSafe Battery Pack. The 12.26W-hour battery inside the pack is the same as the one used in the iPhone Air and can be removed and installed in the phone itself, adding versatility for users.
### Easier Repair Than Expected
Despite its ultra-thin profile, the iPhone Air is surprisingly easy to repair. The internal layout is simplified, with components not overly layered or difficult to access. Both the display and back glass are clipped in place without adhesive, making removal straightforward.
The battery employs a low-voltage electrical current adhesive loosening technique, first introduced with last year’s iPhone 16, enabling safer and easier battery replacement.
### Repairability Score and Improvements
iFixit gave the iPhone Air a provisional repairability score of 7 out of 10. Positive aspects include easier battery access, relatively simple screen replacement, and Apple’s ongoing commitment to repair-friendly practices.
Additionally, Apple has improved repairability by offering spare parts and manuals, and reducing software locks or restrictions related to parts pairing.
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Overall, the iPhone Air proves that ultra-slim design can coexist with thoughtful engineering to support user and technician repairs, marking a noteworthy shift in Apple’s approach to device serviceability.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/ifixit-s-iphone-air-teardown-reveals-sleek-design-surprisingly-easy-reparability/story
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