Latest news with #repairability
The Verge
4 days ago
- The Verge
iFixit says the Switch 2 is even harder to repair than the original
After retroactively lowering the original Nintendo Switch's repairability score from an 8 out of 10 to just 4 out of 10 to reflect 2025 standards, iFixit has found the Switch 2 to be even harder to fix. Following its full teardown of the new console, iFixit is giving the Switch 2 a 3 out of 10 repairability score thanks, in part, to a battery that's once again 'glued in with powerful adhesive' and flash storage modules and USB-C ports that are soldered to the main board. Nintendo continues to rely on the tri-point screws the company has been using to assemble its consoles and handhelds for decades, and on the Switch 2, many are hidden behind stickers that get damaged in the process of removing them to access the screws. The company has never released repair parts or manuals for the original Switch, and there are currently none available for the Switch 2, so you'll need third-party alternatives to reassemble the console. Components like the headphone jack, speakers, microphone, and microSD reader on the Switch 2 are easy to remove. As are buttons that are soldered to breakout boards, and the console's cooling fan that's held in place by three screws. But iFixit describes removing the Switch 2's battery as an 'absolute mission' and 'just as bad as the original Switch.' Lots of isopropyl alcohol and a 'whole set of pry tools' were needed to remove it, and in the process the foam Nintendo glued to the battery was left disintegrated making a future battery swap a difficult and messy endeavor. The Switch 2's gamecard reader, which was modular and relatively easy to remove and replace in the original Switch and Switch OLED models, is now soldered to the console's mainboard as it is on Switch Lite. iFixit also found three different types of thermal paste used in the Switch 2 which in the original Switch would solidify over time making it hard to remove and less effective at preventing the console from overheating. Even the new Joy-Cons on the Switch 2 are harder to disassemble, which is problematic because the joysticks are using the same potentiometer technology as the original Joy-Cons that rely on a resistive material that can wear away over time. That's one of the causes of the original Switch's notorious joystick drift issue and this time around it's going to be even harder to do repairs or replace the sticks altogether with Hall effect or TMR alternatives.
The Verge
03-06-2025
- Business
- The Verge
iFixit is retroactively giving the Nintendo Switch a 4/10 on repairability
Would you call the Nintendo Switch easy to repair, what with its infamously drifting joysticks, glued-in battery, tiny and easy-to-damage ribbon cables, and lack of official repair instructions and replacement parts? iFixit doesn't think so anymore. After giving Nintendo's handheld a rosy welcome at its 2017 debut, the online repair site says the Switch no longer lives up to 2025 standards — and so iFixit is cutting the Switch's repairability score in half, from 8 out of 10 to 4 out of 10. We've never put too much stock into repairability scores, but iFixit's reasoning (in this blog post) makes some sense to me, as a person who happens to open every handheld game system I test for The Verge. It's not Joy-Con drift — it's that the industry has moved on. As of 2025, many handheld gaming PCs are far easier to get inside and repair, and devices are beginning to offer batteries that can be replaced without painstakingly prying a fragile and dangerous-to-damage object (the glued battery) away from their frames. Some iPhones now even let you remove battery adhesive with a jolt of electricity. Plus, the Steam Deck kicked off an expectation that companies that truly want to offer repairable handhelds will make their parts publicly available to purchase, perhaps even through iFixit itself. That's not a place where Nintendo is playing ball —- although New York right-to-repair law may require Nintendo to provide parts for the Switch 2 in the USA, as iFixit points out in its blog post. This isn't the first time iFixit has retroactively decided to diss a big gadget company after thinking better of it: iFixit broke up with Samsung in 2024 after Samsung wasn't forthcoming with official parts and required customers to buy batteries that were preglued to phone screens, among other restrictions. I wonder if they'll exert similar pressure on Logitech. iFixit isn't dissing Nintendo nearly as hard as Samsung, though. 'The original Switch still has bright spots: its modular design philosophy for the joysticks, replaceable (and expandable) storage, and mostly straightforward internal layout all remain commendable. But when compared to newer devices that also offer standardized M.2 slots, socketed components, and widely available parts and repair documentation, the Switch shows its age,' writes iFixit.
Android Authority
30-05-2025
- Business
- Android Authority
Sony's new XM6 headphones are surprisingly easy to repair, even for battery replacements
TL;DR iFixit's teardown of Sony's latest flagship headphones reveals some welcome repairability improvements. The WH-1000XM6's battery is secured with screws instead of adhesive, allowing for easier replacements. The headphone's drivers, USB-C port, audio jack, and button board are also much easier to access. Sony recently unveiled the WH-1000XM6, the highly anticipated successor to one of the best flagship headphones on the market. The new model brings several improvements over its predecessor, including a significantly faster QN3 processor, better ANC, enhanced voice call quality, longer battery life, and more. The XM6 also brings some welcome design changes. Sony has reintroduced the folding mechanism on the new model, which was omitted on the XM5. The company has also added detachable earpads for easier replacement and designed a completely new travel case. But that's not all. Sony has reportedly also redesigned the XM6's insides, which could improve repairability. iFixit has spotted several upgrades that should make the flagship headphones easier to repair. Its teardown reveals that the lithium polymer battery powering the XM6 is secured in a plastic housing with two screws instead of double-sided adhesive, making replacements easy. The modular plate housing the XM6's drivers is also held down by Phillips-head screws and a rubber plug, allowing for straightforward disassembly. Sony has also made the modular USB-C port, audio jack, and button board much easier to access than they were on the XM5. You can check out how easy it is to pull the headphones apart in iFixit's teardown below. Although the company has yet to share a repair manual for the headphones, you can expect it to arrive soon. Sony has published one for the older model, and we don't see why it won't do the same for its latest flagship headphones. As for replacement parts, Sony currently doesn't offer any for the WH-1000XM6 or its predecessor. However, given that the company is actively making changes to improve the repairability of its headphones, there's a chance it could start selling replacement parts soon. What do you think of Sony's decision to make its headphones easier to repair? Would these changes convince you to buy the WH-1000XM6 instead of a flagship headphone from a different brand? Let us know in the comments. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Android Authority
14-05-2025
- Android Authority
Pixel 9a teardown raises big red flags over water resistance and battery repairability
Ryan Haines / Android Authority TL;DR A teardown by YouTube channel JerryRigEverything shows that the Pixel 9a's battery is a nightmare to repair. The video also highlights potential issues with the device's dust and water resistance. The recently released Google Pixel 9a is under fire following YouTube channel JerryRigEverything's famous durability test. The teardown highlights potential issues with the device's water resistance and major problems when it comes to battery repairability. In the teardown video, the YouTuber observes that the mesh covering the rather wide speaker grille of the Pixel 9a can be hampered and dislodged relatively easily while cleaning. This raises concerns about the integrity of the phone's IP68 water and dust protection rating. A compromised speaker mesh could potentially allow water and dust to enter the cavity, compromising the device's durability. However, that's not the Pixel 9a's biggest problem. The teardown revealed that the phone's 5,100mAh battery is secured inside with an overwhelming amount of adhesive, making it extremely difficult to remove and replace. While the use of adhesive is not uncommon in smartphone manufacturing, the excessive amounts used in the Pixel 9a could really complicate battery replacement, posing safety risks and potential damage to the device during repair attempts. As the YouTuber notes, Google's approach to fixing the battery inside the Pixel 9a does not keep up with current industry practices, given that companies like Samsung, Apple, and others have moved towards more repair-friendly designs. Ultimately, the Pixel 9a does survive JerryRigEverything's burn, bend, and scratch tests, but these two issues, especially the battery attachment method, resulted in the YouTuber telling his viewers not to buy the Pixel 9a. Considering that Google promises seven years of software updates for the phone, users should be equally concerned about these issues. Not only is it important to weigh the benefits of the Pixel 9a's features against the potential maintenance and repair challenges, but it's also important to consider how difficult it could be to recycle a device with a battery that refuses to snap out. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Geeky Gadgets
12-05-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
3D Printing Replacement Parts : Philips Fixables a Solution to Broken Appliances?
What if the next time your favorite appliance broke, you didn't have to toss it in frustration or hunt for an expensive replacement? Instead, you could simply print the part you need—right at home or through a local service. With the launch of Philips Fixables, this vision is becoming a reality. By offering open source 3D-printing files for replacement parts, Philips is flipping the script on how we approach broken devices. This bold initiative not only enables consumers to take repairs into their own hands but also addresses a pressing global issue: the staggering 50 million tons of e-waste generated annually. It's a small but significant step toward a future where repairability is the norm, not the exception. In this overview, you'll discover how Philips Fixables is championing repairability and sustainability through innovative solutions like 3D-printed parts. From reducing waste to extending the lifespan of your devices, this initiative is about more than just convenience—it's about reshaping how we value and care for the products we use every day. Whether you're curious about the mechanics of open source repair files, the environmental benefits of a circular economy, or how this movement could inspire other manufacturers, there's plenty to explore. Could this be the beginning of a new era where fixing, not replacing, becomes second nature? Let's find out. Philips 3D Repair Initiative TL;DR Key Takeaways : Philips is promoting sustainability by offering open source 3D printing files for replacement parts, allowing consumers to repair and extend the lifespan of their devices. The initiative supports the circular economy by reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing the environmental impact of discarded devices. Consumers can easily access and use these 3D printing files with home printers or local services, fostering affordability, accessibility, and self-reliance in repairs. By prioritizing repairability, Philips reduces the need for new manufacturing, combats e-waste, and aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable practices. This approach sets a benchmark for sustainable innovation, encouraging other manufacturers to adopt similar strategies and empowering consumers to take an active role in maintaining their products. The Importance of Repairability Repairability plays a crucial role in Philips' strategy to enhance product longevity. Instead of discarding an entire device when a single component fails, you now have the option to replace individual parts. This approach significantly reduces waste, conserves valuable resources, and aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle. For example, a broken hinge or clip no longer necessitates throwing away an otherwise functional appliance. Instead, you can restore its functionality with minimal effort and cost. By prioritizing repairability, Philips ensures that you can keep your devices operational for longer, reducing the environmental impact of unnecessary replacements. How Open source 3D Printing Files Empower You Philips provides open source files that enable you to 3D-print replacement parts for your devices. These files can be used with a home 3D printer or through a local printing service, making repairs more accessible than ever before. By offering these files free of charge, Philips removes common barriers to repair, giving you greater control over maintaining your products. Whether it's a small clip or a critical component, these 3D-printed parts ensure your devices remain functional and valuable. This initiative not only saves you money but also fosters a culture of self-reliance and sustainability. Philips Fixables Reducing E-Waste with 3D Printing Expand your understanding of 3D printing with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Promoting Sustainable Practices Through Repair This initiative actively encourages sustainable practices by reducing the need for new manufacturing and minimizing waste. When you repair instead of replace, you contribute to a circular economy that prioritizes resource reuse and reduces environmental impact. Philips' approach aligns with global efforts to combat e-waste, a growing environmental challenge. By choosing to repair your devices, you help reduce the strain on natural resources and support a more sustainable future. This model benefits both the environment and your wallet, offering a practical solution to modern environmental concerns. DIY Repairs and the Circular Economy Philips' focus on DIY repairs aligns with the principles of the circular economy, which emphasizes keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. For you, this means fewer discarded devices and more opportunities to keep your appliances functional. The availability of 3D-printed parts makes it easier to address common wear and tear, making sure that your devices remain operational without the need for costly replacements. This approach not only conserves resources but also enables you to take an active role in maintaining your products, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Extending Product Lifespan Through Innovation The availability of 3D-printed parts directly contributes to extending the lifespan of Philips products. When you can easily replace a damaged component, there's less need to discard the entire device. This not only saves you money but also reduces the demand for energy-intensive manufacturing processes and resource extraction. By prioritizing repairability, Philips ensures its products remain valuable and functional for years, helping you maximize your investment. This approach demonstrates how innovation can be used to create practical solutions that benefit both consumers and the environment. Setting a Benchmark for Sustainable Innovation Philips' commitment to repairability and sustainability sets a new standard for manufacturers worldwide. By providing open source files and encouraging DIY repairs, the company showcases how technology can address pressing environmental challenges. For you, this means greater autonomy in maintaining your devices and contributing to a more sustainable future. Philips' approach highlights how innovation can drive meaningful change in consumer habits and industry practices, inspiring other companies to adopt similar strategies. This initiative underscores the potential for sustainable innovation to create a positive impact on both the environment and everyday life. A Future Built on Repairability Philips Fixables represents a forward-thinking approach to repairability, sustainability, and product longevity. By offering open source files for 3D-printed parts, Philips enables you to take an active role in maintaining your devices. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports the circular economy, making sure your products remain functional and valuable for years to come. Through this model, Philips demonstrates how sustainable innovation can benefit both the environment and consumers like you, paving the way for a future where repairability is a fundamental aspect of product design. Media Credit: Philips Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. 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