Apple is reportedly making significant changes to its iPhone batteries, aiming for easier user replaceability in line with upcoming EU regulations. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has highlighted these changes, suggesting that the iPhone 16 Pro Max will be the first to benefit from a new battery design that’s both more repairable and more powerful.
Apple’s Innovative Stainless-Steel Battery Case
According to Kuo, Apple plans to replace the current adhesive strips used to secure the battery with a stainless-steel battery case. This innovative case is designed to open upon receiving an electric jolt, a technique known as electrically induced adhesive debonding.
iPhone 16 Pro Max: First to Feature New Battery Casing
“The iPhone 16 Pro Max will be the first iPhone to benefit from the new battery casing,” Kuo predicts, suggesting that this model, expected in 2025, will align with the EU mandate requiring user-replaceable smartphone batteries by that year.
Enhanced Battery Density and Performance
This new approach offers significant advantages beyond simplified repairs. Kuo explains, “The added benefit to this is a reported 5-10% increase in battery cell density while still meeting safety requirements. This will result in better battery life.”
Sunway: Key Supplier for Apple’s Battery Innovation
The improved battery density will be achieved without increasing the overall battery size, allowing Apple to pack more power into the same footprint. Sunway is identified as the likely supplier of these stainless-steel battery cases, positioning the company to reap significant rewards from this new partnership with Apple.
Industry Shift Towards User-Replaceable Batteries
This shift towards user-replaceable batteries signals a broader industry trend driven by right-to-repair movements and environmental concerns. As other manufacturers follow suit, consumers can look forward to devices that are easier to repair, have a longer lifespan, and potentially offer improved performance. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development as the iPhone 16 Pro Max release approaches.
