New MacBook Pro Impossible to Repair?
Apple's new MacBook Pro could be the "least repairable laptop" ever, according to iFixit.com who recently took the device apart to discover the changes made to the line.
"Apple has packed all the things we hate into one beautiful little package," wrote the site.
Upon taking the notebook apart, iFixit discovered the new components used in creating this device that includes a new asymmetrical fan that was installed to reduce noise, a new 95 Wh battery compared to the 77.5Wh in previous generation models, and an SSD supplied by Samsung that features a "Samsung S4LJ204X01" marking.
iFixit's issues with reparability stem from some of the methods used by Apple in order to craft the new MacBook Pro.
One of these methods is Apple's use of proprietary Pentalobe screws to hold its frame together. These screws can only be removed by using a special screwdriver, so it will be impossible for the average person to access the internal components in the machine.
Another issue is the RAM being soldered to the logic board. This makes it impossible to upgrade, so owners will be stuck with the max 16GB amount until a next-generation model is released.
The SSD also cannot be upgraded as of right now. However, it is a separate daughterboard, so this could change in the future.
The lithium-polymer battery is also glued and not screwed into the case, which increases the changes of it getting damaged when the device is being taken apart. The battery also covers the trackpad cable. This could lead to the cable being damaged when someone is attempting to remove the battery.
The display assembly is completely fused together with no glass protecting it. This means that if anything breaks inside of it, the entire display will need to be replaced.
Any repairs will have to be performed by Apple, according to these factors.