Apple’s AirPods have been at the center of criticism for their lack of repairability, a trend that unfortunately continues with the newly launched AirPods Pro 3. Similar to previous generations, these earbuds utilize lithium batteries that inevitably deteriorate over time. However, Apple’s choice to adhere these components with adhesive makes battery replacement an arduous task, often leading to irreversible damage.
Even with Features Like Heart Rate Tracking and IP57 Rating, Repairability Issues Persist with AirPods Pro 3
Teardowns conducted by iFixit have consistently revealed the same issue across all generations. Components are not only secured with adhesive but are also encased in tightly sealed plastics, complicating any attempts to fix them. The latest AirPods Pro 3 offer enhancements such as IP57 water resistance, noise isolation improvements through foam tips, and a new heart rate sensor; however, repairability remains a major concern, according to iFixit’s detailed assessment.
Inside each earbud, the battery continues to be firmly glued, requiring specialized heating equipment and careful handling to remove it. Even if a user successfully detaches the battery, the likelihood of damaging the plastic casing is significant. Furthermore, resealing the device after repairs poses another daunting challenge. While the internal structure houses advanced components like Apple’s H2 chip and microphones, these parts are also sealed down with adhesive layers, complicating any repair efforts.
Similarly, the charging case of the AirPods Pro 3 has seen some modifications. Apple has transitioned from a dual-cell battery system to a single battery setup, which is intended to streamline the design. Nonetheless, the same adhesive-based fixation limits any potential for repairs. The latest teardown also reveals a change in the arrangement of magnets to incorporate MagSafe and Qi2 charging functionalities. However, the glued battery within the case remains the paramount issue.
Despite introducing new features relative to the AirPods Pro 2, Apple’s design philosophy seems to prioritize aesthetic appeal and water resistance at the expense of durability. Other manufacturers, like Fairphone, have demonstrated that it’s feasible to create fully wireless earbuds with replaceable batteries. Apple’s ongoing approach may lead to millions of AirPods being discarded every few years, representing an unnecessary depletion of rare earth minerals. The company should consider adopting strategies that mitigate these environmental concerns.
While the AirPods Pro 3 present outstanding features such as superior Active Noise Cancellation and heart rate tracking, they are ultimately designed with a disposable mindset. As a result, iFixit has awarded the AirPods Pro 3 an alarming 0 out of 10 on the repairability scale.
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