Apple’s Replaceable Batteries Are Coming Soon to iPhone 16

Apple is developing a new technology that eases Apple battery replacement for iPhones, to comply with EU requirements. 

This move by Apple is in line with a projected law by the EU that requires smartphone makers to ensure their future batteries are user-replaceable using accessible tools by 2025, as reported by The Information. 

Battery Replacement Technology 

Apple is considering using a technology called electrically induced adhesive debonding technology, as per people close to the development process of these batteries within the company, 

This technology is a method that uses low voltage to reduce the power of adhesive bonds, enabling the easy separation of bonded parts. This means that for iPhones, batteries could be easily and quickly removed safely without heat, making the process simpler and eco-friendly. While the current method used is complicated, as it involves taking out adhesive strips with tweezers. Therefore, the installation of a new battery needs specific equipment. 

The iPhone maker’s new technology uses metal instead of black foil to cover the battery. In this regard, and speaking of this technology, the leaked photos of the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro showed that its battery was developed based on the new innovation. 

By applying low voltage, the battery can be swiftly removed from its case, however, customers will still have to open the phone in a complicated manner using the adhesives and screws to secure the screen and make sure it is waterproof. 

This new technology is expected to be launched later this year, to start in minimum one iPhone 16 model and might be expanded to iPhone17 models next year. 

EU Regulation Exemption 

In parallel, Apple could avoid EU law concerning easy battery replacement in case the devices meet some standards. For instance, the battery capacity should remain at 83% even after 500 full charges and 80% after 1,000 charges. As for the iPhone 15 meets the 1,000-charge standard, but older models don’t meet the 500-charge requirement. 

Final Thoughts 

The latest move by Apple, among many others shows that it is doing all what it takes to gain the trust of the EU and to maintain a position in the European market. 

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