Apple is spoiling the strong point of its smartphone

The iPhone 14 sees its repairability rating with iFixit go from 7/10 to 4/10. At issue: Apple-imposed software locks on its parts.

The iPhone 14 had one thing and one thing only over the iPhone 13: higher repairability. In fact, if the iPhone 14 has disappointed us by being so close to its predecessor, that it even justifies buying the 13 compared to the 14, we have noticed that people who are keen to make a long-term purchase may prefer it.

To everyone’s surprise, right after the launch of the iPhone 14, iFixit revealed that Apple had completely reworked the interior, making it removable from the front and back, an argument that changes everything upon purchase.

Almost a year later, iFixit is still very interested in this iPhone 14, but this time, it will be announced in… Blog post It is no longer repairable. Its very good rating of 7/10, the best since the iPhone 7, has risen to 4/10 according to the website specializing in electronic device repair.

Matching parts indicated

To reach this goal, iFixit listened to the community of independent repairers who appreciated their stellar reviews. “When we gave iPhone 14 a high rating, the community said no. Frankly, they were right, and we want to thank our readers for their help in holding manufacturers accountable. »

The site addresses this problem very clearly, explaining that: “It was very enthusiastically given a Strong rating, thanks to its innovative interior design that makes repairs easy.” The company admits it may have gotten a little carried away. If they stay “Big audiences” With this interior design, today they admit it “Reality has fulfilled this beautiful dream for those who have experienced iPhone repair. »

In question, matching parts, which is the practice that determines “Software locks used by electronics manufacturers to prevent the general public, DIY enthusiasts, and professional repair shops from changing parts.”, writing iFixit.

They add: “Many major repairs for late-model iPhones require approval from Apple. You must purchase iPhone parts through their system, then validate the repair through their chat system. Otherwise, you will experience limited or missing functionality, as well as annoying crashes and warnings.” »

Track barriers

To work within Apple’s restrictions, repairers must “undergo five years of audits” and “submit their customers’ personal information to Apple.” As a result, some people give in to frustration.

This is what iFixit wanted to reflect by revising its rating system. “Now that we’ve put the iPhone 14 through our new rating framework, the picture is no longer so rosy. The new iPhone 14 score of 4/10 reflects the fact that individuals and independent repair shops face crippling limitations when trying to repair the device. »

In the face of this change, let’s say it clearly: the iPhone 14 loses its main selling point compared to the iPhone 13. There is now no reason to prefer it over its predecessor. Let’s add that if you’re looking to make a long-term purchase and have the means, the iPhone 15 could be an interesting purchase with the switch to USB-C.