With the iPhone 16, Apple has not only improved performance and heat dissipation. The Cupertino giant has also revised the internal design of its smartphones to make battery replacement easier. A decision that is not insignificant, since it allows Apple to comply with the new European legislation that will come into force in 2025.
A new internal design designed for repairability
As Apple confirms in its press release, “the internal design of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus has been redesigned to allow for an even larger battery and better heat dissipation, while facilitating battery maintenance.” A small revolution when you know Apple’s reputation for repairability.
Until now, replacing an iPhone battery has often been a challenge, between Apple’s stubborn adhesive and the need for specialized tools. But that could change with the iPhone 16. According to a report from The Information earlier this year, Apple is reportedly planning to use a new type of adhesive that’s easier to remove, possibly using electrically-inductive “debonding” technology.
Getting in line with Brussels
But beyond the practical aspect for users, this change in philosophy above all responds to a legal obligation. Indeed, the European Union has adopted a law that will require smartphone manufacturers to ensure that batteries can be easily replaced by users with accessible tools, starting in June 2025.
There are some exceptions, of course, such as devices with IP67 water resistance that retain 83% of battery capacity after 500 full charges and 80% after 1,000 charges. The iPhone 15 already meets this criteria for 1,000 cycles, and it is likely that the iPhone 16 will do the same. But even then, Apple will have to comply with certain requirements, such as the use of removable or reusable fasteners. However, it is not certain that users will be able to replace their battery at home with any tool. All of this remains to be seen.
With this new internal design that makes it easier to replace the battery, Apple seems to have taken the lead in complying with upcoming European regulations. This is good news for users, even if not all models will be treated the same: the iPhone 16 Pro press release does not mention these battery-related changes. We will have to wait for the first teardowns by iFixit to find out for sure. In the meantime, the iPhone 16 will be available for pre-order starting this Friday, September 13, for a release scheduled for September 20.