
Apple has officially launched the iPhone 16e, priced at $599, prompting tech enthusiasts to dive into its intricacies through detailed teardowns. Following a thorough disassembly, one YouTuber revealed that this model utilizes traditional optical image stabilization (OIS) rather than the advanced sensor-shift optical image stabilization featured in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15. Furthermore, the A18 chipset’s cooling system appears to be quite basic, employing only graphite and copper for heat dissipation. Here are some noteworthy insights from the teardown.
Teardown Insights: A Repairability Score of 7.5 Out of 10
The YouTube channel PBKreviews conducted an extensive disassembly of the iPhone 16e and assigned it a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10. This relatively high score is largely attributed to the straightforward display and battery replacement process. The disassembly revealed that the display assembly can be easily detached using standard tools to unlock the ribbon cables connecting to the device’s motherboard.
Despite the numerous screws securing various components—a factor that may frustrate first-time disassemblers—the battery removal proved to be remarkably easy. Although pull-tabs were absent, a low-voltage electrical current effectively assisted in the battery’s extraction, making the task simpler.
Battery Removal: An Efficient Process
In a previous report, we discussed the battery removal technique for the iPhone 16e. A 9V battery, USB-C charger, or nearly any power source can initiate the separation of the battery from the device’s chassis. The teardown video illustrates the content creator using a spare 9V battery connected to the battery terminal with crocodile cables, which successfully facilitates the debonding process in approximately one and a half minutes.
Performance Considerations and Cooling Limitations
Another observation from the teardown is that the compact A18 logic board is equipped with only graphite film and copper tape to assist in thermal management. Even though this chipset is engineered to handle intensive tasks, such as running AAA games, this basic cooling setup may limit overall performance. Thus, PBKreviews ultimately awarded the iPhone 16e a repairability score of 7.5 out of 10. Most detracting points stemmed from the lengthy disassembly duration and the complexity involved in replacing other internal components.
For a comprehensive look, check out the full teardown video on PBKreviews.
Leave a Reply