The latest 13-inch iPad Pro M4 (2024) has been dissected by the experts at iFixit, revealing some interesting insights about its repairability and design. Let’s dive into the details:
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Display: The 13-inch iPad Pro M4 (2024) features a Tandem OLED, also known as the Ultra Retina panel. This display is only accessible through the screen, similar to its LCD predecessors. While the adhesive securing the screen isn’t too aggressive, the repair process can still be daunting. The Ultra Retina panel is likely to be expensive to replace, posing a risk of damage during repairs. Manufactured by Samsung and LG, this new panel offers a peak SDR brightness of 1000 nits and a doubled contrast ratio for brighter whites and deeper blacks.
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Battery: A significant improvement in the iPad Pro 13 is the easier battery replacement process. For the first time, the battery can be accessed immediately after removing the screen. This simplifies the process compared to previous models where extensive disassembly was required before reaching the battery. Despite being incredibly thin, Apple has prioritized battery replacement in this model.
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Challenges: The ultra-thin design of the iPad Pro 13 does present some repairability challenges. Components like daughterboards, speakers, and coax cables are glued down due to space constraints, making them more difficult to remove without causing damage.
- Pencil Pro: The Pencil Pro presents some repair difficulties as its battery is not easily replaceable, essentially making it a disposable item once the battery dies. This aspect has disappointed some users who value sustainability in their devices.
In conclusion, while Apple has made strides in improving repairability with features like easier battery replacement in the iPad Pro 13, there are still areas where compromises have been made for design purposes. It’s great to see advancements in technology but maintaining a balance between innovation and repairability is essential for creating sustainable products that meet both consumer needs and environmental concerns.
