Apple has long been known for its steep premiums on storage and memory upgrades, a trend that continues to frustrate users. This issue is particularly pronounced among those unfamiliar with the delicate art of soldering NAND storage modules into iPhones. Recent updates indicate that Apple is now preventing modified storage upgrades on the iPhone Air, as the new storage chips in various capacities fail to register when attempting to install iOS.
Challenges of Modding iPhone Air Storage
The modding saga begins with a user named DirectorFeng, who recently acquired an iPhone Air and sought to enhance its internal memory from 256GB to an impressive 1TB. Utilizing intricate soldering techniques, the modder disassembled the device, accessing the logic board. It was during this process that he observed the storage chip’s serial number began with ‘2NB’, a configuration he hadn’t encountered in earlier models.
After successfully removing the original memory module, DirectorFeng carefully installed a new 1TB chip. He then proceeded to connect the device to his Mac to flash iOS onto the upgraded hardware. However, this is where complications arose.
Upon attempting to flash the new storage, he encountered error code ‘4014′, indicating a failed installation. Undeterred, DirectorFeng attempted to replace the new chip with a 512GB NAND flash module but faced the same roadblock. In a final attempt, he reverted to a 256GB module, yet once again, his efforts proved unsuccessful. This leads to the conclusion that either compatible NAND memory options for the iPhone 17 series are not yet available or that Apple is intentionally restricting modders from upgrading their devices, thus compelling them to pay the company’s premium prices.
The outcome of this experimental endeavor left the iPhone Air inoperative since the original 256GB memory chip had been completely erased. While future storage solutions may resurrect the device, the wait could be lengthy, and success remains uncertain. The overarching takeaway from this experience emphasizes the importance of investing in Apple’s offerings rather than attempting risky modifications for now.
For more details, check out the source video by DirectorFeng.
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