September 12, 2024 – Apple has announced a redesign of the internal structure of its iPhone 16 series, allowing for a larger battery capacity, enhanced heat dissipation, and easier battery replacement. These changes are believed to align with the European Union’s regulations and laws.
Although Apple did not specifically mention these updates in its press release for the iPhone 16 Pro series, the company highlighted the use of a titanium design, a new generation of Ceramic Shield front cover, and an advanced mechanical system that can boost cooling performance and efficiency by up to 20%.
According to previous reports from The Information, Apple is introducing a novel method for battery replacement in the iPhone 16 series. This new approach is in response to the European Union’s requirement for smartphone manufacturers to ensure that batteries can be easily replaced by users with basic tools, despite being non-removable.
As the iPhone 16 series models are not yet available for purchase, it may take some time before teardown videos emerge, providing a detailed look at the battery modifications.
The Information also revealed that Apple would be utilizing an adhesive that is more conducive to disassembly. This is a significant shift from the company’s previous use of challenging adhesives, and the new method could potentially involve electrically induced adhesive debonding technology.
Furthermore, the European Union’s “New Battery Law” sets specific recycling targets for manufacturers. For instance, it mandates that by 2028, 51% of electric vehicle batteries must be recycled, increasing to 61% by 2031. Similarly, portable batteries must achieve a 45% recycling rate by 2023, rising to 63% by 2027 and 73% by 2030.
Additionally, the law requires rechargeable industrial and traction batteries with a capacity exceeding 2kWh to provide a carbon footprint declaration and label. Companies are responsible for collecting and calculating carbon emissions data for each lifecycle stage, including raw materials, production, transportation, end-of-life, and recycling. By 2026, traction batteries must also possess a “battery passport” documenting essential information such as capacity, performance, intended use, chemical composition, and recyclable materials to be sold in the European region.
