iPhone Air’s Repairability Shocks, Gemini Hits Google TV
▼ Summary
– Apple’s thin iPhone Air earned a 7/10 repair score, partly due to a relocated logic board that creates more space for easier battery access.
– The iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro models both scored 7/10, but the Air is easier to repair, while the Pro models require display removal for battery replacement.
– iFixit identified that the sharp corners of the camera module on iPhone 17 Pro models are susceptible to scratches due to a weak anodization layer.
– OnePlus is skipping the number 14 for its next smartphone, the OnePlus 15, which will feature a new Snapdragon processor and a “DetailMax” image-processing engine.
– Google is adding its Gemini AI assistant to Google TV devices, significantly enhancing the existing voice search functionality.
The unexpected repairability of Apple’s remarkably thin iPhone Air has become a major talking point, with the device earning a surprisingly high score from experts. Despite its incredibly slim 5.6 mm profile, which often complicates repairs, the iPhone Air received a respectable 7/10 repair score from iFixit. A crucial design change contributed to this success: Apple moved the logic board to free up space for the battery, significantly improving accessibility. The phone also utilizes an electrically debonding adhesive, a feature first seen on the iPhone 16, which simplifies the process of swapping out the battery.
Even the iPhone 17 Pro models matched this 7/10 score, though technicians found the Air model presents fewer challenges during repairs. The Pro’s battery is screwed in, making replacement straightforward, but a redesign introduced a complication. These models no longer offer dual-entry access, forcing technicians to remove the display to reach the battery. While the backplate can be taken off to replace the Ceramic Shield 2, this path only provides access to the wireless charging coil.
iFixit also investigated online reports about the latest Pro models being prone to scratches, a trend dubbed #scratchgate. Their analysis identified the sharp corners of the Camera Plateau module as the primary cause. The anodization layer appears to have a weaker bond on these sharp edges, leading to more visible wear on the aluminum camera housing. Since this specific part cannot be replaced separately, using a protective case is the most effective way to prevent cosmetic damage.
Attention is also turning to OnePlus, which is preparing to launch its next smartphone ahead of schedule. Although the OnePlus 13 arrived in the US less than a year ago, the company is already focusing on the OnePlus 15, skipping the number 14 due to its association with bad luck in Chinese culture. While specific details remain scarce, the phone is confirmed to be among the first Android devices powered by Qualcomm’s recently announced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, positioning it alongside competitors like the Xiaomi 17 Pro.
OnePlus has ended its partnership with camera specialist Hasselblad, but aims to build consumer trust in its photographic capabilities with a new “DetailMax” image-processing engine. This technology reportedly emphasizes realistic images over heavy-handed filters and artificial beautification, and it also helps manage the device’s temperature during intensive use. The early announcement suggests a US launch could happen before 2026, with more information expected in the near future.
In other tech news, Google is enhancing its television platform by integrating its advanced AI assistant. The company has confirmed that Gemini AI assistant is coming to a number of Google TV devices, which will substantially improve the onscreen search experience for users. While Google TV already offered capable voice search, the integration of Gemini’s sophisticated AI promises to deliver much more powerful and intuitive functionality.
(Source: Wired)
