Slim smartphones have cycled in and out of popularity over the years. From the inception of the mobile industry, manufacturers have alternated between creating thinner devices and increasing their size to accommodate larger displays and additional features. With the iPhone Air, Apple seems to be embracing minimalism, particularly in terms of its sleek design. According to iFixit’s repair experts, the iPhone Air has a surprisingly high repair score. Elizabeth Chamberlain from iFixit notes that, “Thinner usually means weaker, more difficult repairability, and glued components, but the iPhone Air defies expectations on all counts.” This is largely attributed to Apple’s clever product design.
The phone’s lower section is predominantly occupied by a battery, while the logic board, containing most of the electronic components, is situated near the camera at the top. iFixit describes the iPhone Air’s compact structure as flattening the “disassembly tree,” minimizing the number of components that need removal before accessing repairable parts. The ultra-thin chassis required Apple to arrange components more horizontally, enhancing accessibility. The modular design implies that tasks such as replacing the USB-C port should be particularly straightforward. However, as with any phone, having a detailed disassembly guide is beneficial to avoid damaging the device during repairs. iFixit will continue to be a valuable resource for such guides.