iFixit Reveals How Apple Engineered the Thinner iPhone Air

Repair specialists iFixit have completed a full teardown of Apple’s new iPhone Air. The analysis provides the first detailed look inside the thinnest iPhone ever made. This examination reveals how Apple engineered the device for its sleek form factor.

According to the iFixit report, the device represents a major shift in iPhone design philosophy. The findings confirm several innovative space-saving techniques.

Inside the iPhone Air’s Groundbreaking Engineering

Apple used a unique “camera plateau” to house components. The logic board is partially situated within the camera bump itself. This design creates crucial space for a large, metal-encased battery.

The titanium frame includes strategic plastic gaps to prevent cellular interference. iFixit notes these areas are potential weak points in an otherwise rigid structure. The overall chassis is designed to protect the internal components from bending stress.

In a significant discovery, iFixit confirmed the MagSafe Battery pack uses the same battery cell as the iPhone Air. This 12.26 watt-hour battery is fully interchangeable between the phone and the accessory.

Apple’s Leap Forward in User Repairability

Despite its thin profile, the iPhone Air is surprisingly repairable. The design avoids layers of components, making parts more accessible. Apple uses a clipped-in display and back glass, eliminating the need for adhesive in these areas.

Where adhesive is necessary, Apple employs a new low-voltage electrical current system. This technology, first seen in the iPhone 16, allows for easier battery removal. It represents a clear commitment to improving right-to-repair standards.

Another innovation is the 3D-printed titanium USB-C port. iFixit found this alloy is “structurally robust” though less scratch-resistant. The port is modular and can be replaced if damaged.

The logic board features Apple’s custom-designed C1X 5G modem, N1 networking chip, and A19 Pro processor. This marks the first iPhone with a full suite of Apple-designed silicon, moving away from Qualcomm modems.

iFixit awarded the iPhone Air a provisional repairability score of 7 out of 10. This high score reflects easier battery access and screen replacement. Apple’s efforts to release spare parts and reduce software locks have significantly improved its repairability stance.

Info at your fingertips

How repairable is the iPhone Air compared to other models?

It received a score of 7/10 from iFixit. This is higher than many previous models due to its modular design and reduced software locks on parts.

What is special about the iPhone Air’s battery?

The same battery cell is used in the phone and its MagSafe Battery pack. They are physically interchangeable, a first for Apple accessories.

Does the thin design make the iPhone Air fragile?

The titanium frame provides significant rigidity. iFixit identified minor potential weak points but overall found the structural design robust for daily use.

What new Apple-designed chips does the iPhone Air contain?

It features the A19 Pro processor, N1 networking chip, and C1X 5G modem. This is the first iPhone to use an Apple-designed modem instead of Qualcomm’s.

How is the display attached?

Apple uses a clipped-in mechanism for the display and back glass. This design eliminates adhesive, simplifying the repair process for technicians.