Apple to introduce electric induction adhesive removal technology in iPhone 16 to simplify battery replacements, due to EU regulations
It has been reported that Apple plans to introduce a new technology called 'electrical induction adhesive peeling' in the iPhone 16, scheduled for release in 2024, to make it easier to replace iPhone batteries.
Apple Explores Novel Method for Making iPhone Batteries More Replaceable — The Information
Report: Apple Planning to Debut New Battery Replacement Method With iPhone 16 - MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/2024/06/28/new-battery-replacement-method-with-iphone-16/
iPhones of the future may not glue their batteries shut
https://www.androidauthority.com/future-iphones-may-not-glue-batteries-3455579/
Apple Might Make iPhone Battery Replacement Easier: Report • iPhone in Canada Blog
https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/06/28/apple-easier-iphone-battery-replacement/
The EU has announced new regulations that will require smartphone manufacturers to make their smartphone batteries replaceable using readily available tools by 2025.
EU passes bill to make smartphone battery replacement as easy as flip phones, hopes of extending smartphone usable life - GIGAZINE
According to a report from The Information, Apple is considering adopting electrically-induced adhesive-release technology to comply with the new regulations.
At the time of writing, the iPhone's battery is fixed to the case with adhesive tape. This makes battery replacement very difficult. Although it is necessary to peel off the adhesive tape with tweezers, if the tape is damaged during the work, it will be necessary to use heat or a solvent to remove the adhesive tape. In addition, when replacing the battery, it seems that a special tray and machine are also required to safely install the new battery.
On the other hand, Apple plans to introduce an electric induction adhesive peeling technology that will wrap the battery in metal instead of aluminum foil, making it possible to remove the battery from the case by simply applying a small electric shock to the battery. According to sources, although it will still be necessary to remove the iPhone's display when replacing the battery, it will be much easier to do if you focus on the task of 'battery replacement.'
German adhesive tape manufacturer tesa has developed an on-demand peeling solution as a type of electrically-induced adhesive peeling technology, and the demonstration was as follows:
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It has been reported that one model of the iPhone 16 series to be released in 2024 will use electric induction adhesive peeling technology, and all models of the iPhone 17 series to be released in 2025 will use electric induction adhesive peeling technology. However, even if Apple adopts electric induction adhesive peeling technology, it is expected that users will be advised to seek professional assistance for battery replacement, given the complexity and potential risks of the procedure.
Apple could be exempt from the new EU law requiring battery replacements if its devices meet certain standards, such as maintaining 83% of their maximum capacity after 500 full charges and 80% of their maximum capacity after 1,000 full charges. However, while the iPhone 15 meets the 1,000 charge/discharge standard, it does not meet the 500 charge/discharge standard.
It has been reported in the past that Apple is continuing to explore ways to comply with EU regulations with the iPhone 16. Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst familiar with Apple-related leaks, has pointed out that Apple will make the battery case of the iPhone 16 Pro Max out of stainless steel to make it easier to replace.
Rumor has it that the iPhone 16 Pro Max's battery capacity will be improved even more than the previous model, and that it will be equipped with a stainless steel battery case that complies with EU rules on battery exchangeability - GIGAZINE
Apple has meticulously designed the iPhone to be water-resistant and durable, which is why it is known to be a difficult device to repair. However, in recent years, regulations to protect the 'right to repair' have accelerated, forcing Apple to change the design of the iPhone.
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