iFixit: AirPods 5 Achieves Repairability Score of 2/10
Repair specialist iFixit has awarded Apple's AirPods 5 a repairability score of 2 out of 10, marking the first time in a decade that AirPods have received a score other than zero.
Repair service iFixit has released its report on the repairability of Apple's AirPods 5, assigning them a score of 2 out of 10. This rating is notable as it breaks a ten-year streak where all previous AirPods models received a repairability score of 0/10.
iFixit attributes the improved score to the fact that the battery in the AirPods 5 can be removed and replaced without damaging the entire device. This marks the first instance in Apple's AirPods history where the battery is user-replaceable.
However, the increase in score from zero to two does not indicate easy repairability. iFixit emphasizes that battery replacement still requires significant technical expertise and is primarily suitable for professionals or highly adventurous DIY users. Repairing or opening other components, such as the charging case, without damage remains very challenging.
The device's internal structure was revealed to be highly integrated. According to iFixit's CT scans, small components like the battery, microphones, and H2 chip are packed into a confined space, making deeper repairs even more complex.