The Improved Repairability of the Apple Watch Series 12

After a few weeks of being out in the market, the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 have undergone the customary teardowns by the experts at iFixit. Their findings indicate that while this year’s models are quite similar to their predecessors, the new Series 12 does offer a slight advantage for those looking to prolong its lifespan: improved repairability.

It’s important to note that this improvement is modest. The repairability score for the Apple Watch Series 12 has only increased by one point according to iFixit, bringing it to a total of 4 out of 10. While this is not a significant leap, it does place the Series 12 on par with the Ultra 4, which has the same score as its previous version.

The main reason for this change is that the larger, titanium-encased Apple Watch model is now easier to access, thanks to more forgiving tolerances that reduce the risk of screen damage during disassembly. Although the Apple Watch Series 12 doesn’t completely address this issue—in fact, it may have worsened this year—it does introduce a few other exclusive modifications that compensate for it.

One of the most notable upgrades is the addition of a battery pull tab, which allows for the safe and effortless removal of the battery. Since the battery is typically the component most likely to require replacement, being able to extract it without the need for tools significantly simplifies the process.

Furthermore, Apple has replaced the somewhat cumbersome ZIF connector and tape used in previous models to attach the display. The Series 12 now features a new display press connector that is easy to disconnect and reconnect.

These enhancements have earned the Apple Watch Series 12 an extra point in terms of repairability. However, the risk of damaging the display during DIY repairs means that self-repair is still a challenging task.

Interestingly, the Apple Watch is notably absent from Apple’s Self Service Repair program. While the company offers parts and tools for customers to repair their iPhones, iPads, and Macs, the Apple Watch is excluded from this initiative, indicating that it is best left to professionals for repair.

According to iFixit, Apple’s decision to exclude the Apple Watch from the Self Service Repair program may be due to the lack of focus on wearables in the push for Right to Repair laws. However, the Apple Watch is potentially non-compliant with such laws in at least ten states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Washington.

There is also ambiguity regarding whether the Apple Watch should be classified as a “medical device,” which could exempt it from Right to Repair laws. Neither Apple nor the FDA has made such a claim, with the FDA categorizing the Apple Watch as a “general-purpose computing platform” that incorporates FDA-cleared health features.

iFixit argues that the Google Pixel Watch 5, a competitor to the Apple Watch, offers similar health features while achieving a repairability score of 9 out of 10. The Pixel Watch 5 allows users to replace the display with just two Torx screws and a gasket, or swap out the battery with a few additional screws.

Currently, the primary option for Apple Watch owners requiring screen repairs or battery replacements is to visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Without AppleCare+, these repairs can cost $99 for a battery replacement or $599 for other damages. AppleCare+ subscription plans, priced at $4.99 monthly or $49.99 annually for the Series 12, or $5.99 and $59.99 for the Ultra 4, reduce these costs to $0 for battery service and $69 for accidental damage, with theft and loss replacements incurring a fee of $119.

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