Specialists from iFixit conducted a detailed teardown of the new Apple AirPods Pro 3 to analyze their design and repairability. As a result, the experts gave the device a score of zero for repairability, but noted a number of interesting technical changes, including new foam-filled ear tips, a single battery, and a redesigned magnetic system.
Image source: iFixit
Like previous models, the new AirPods Pro 3 were deemed practically unrepairable, writes 9to5Mac. iFixit stated that these earbuds are among the most difficult-to-repair products on the market. The batteries in them, as in any portable electronics, wear out after 2–3 years of regular use, and the third Pro generation is no exception. Experts noted that even a skilled technician would be unlikely to replace the battery or any other component without risking serious external damage to the earbuds or rendering them completely inoperable. Thus, the model received a score of 0 out of 10, continuing, as the specialists put it, its unfortunate nine-year streak.
Regarding technical features, iFixit highlighted several innovations. Apple replaced the dual battery cells from previous models with a single 1.334 Wh battery. It was also noted that removing this battery has become slightly easier, although this did not affect the overall low repairability of the product. Apple engineers redesigned the array of rare-earth magnets inside the charging case, which allowed them to reduce their quantity while maintaining full support for Qi2 and MagSafe wireless charging standards.
The most notable part of the teardown was a detailed inspection of the foam-filled ear tips. The provided images show the internal cellular structure of this material, which, according to Apple, provides a better fit in the ear canal and improves noise isolation. The foam itself has a porous structure and is fully encased in a silicone shell.
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