The new AirPods Pro are difficult to repair, especially when the battery eventually fails.


Apple’s newest earbuds scored dismally low on iFixit’s repairability test, making battery replacements nearly impossible.
The AirPods contain a 0.221 Wh battery, and the charging case contains a 1.334 Wh battery. The previous AirPods Pro 2 model used two battery cells, which explains why the new AirPods Pro 3 have a 24-hour battery life, compared to the Pro 2's 30 hours.
iFixit disassembled the AirPods Pro 3 to analyze the design, but the process required destroying the product, as the manufacturer did not intend for them to be repaired.
Repairing the device requires specialized tools, and there is still a risk of damage. The AirPods Pro 3 received a repairability score of 0 out of 10 from iFixit.
Due to the design, battery replacements are complicated, and many repair shops will not perform them. The AirPods Pro charging case also uses a glued-in battery.
Attempting a battery repair will likely cause cosmetic damage to the plastic on the earbuds or the case, as the devices must be pried open. Heat is needed to loosen the adhesive, and disconnecting the internal flex cable is difficult.
Ideally, tech devices should be more repairable. As the amount of discarded tech increases, it is important to improve product designs. Apple has improved the repairability of iPhones, but small accessories should also be a priority.
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