Teardown reveals Pixel XL harder to repair than iPhone 7
Google’s new large screen flagship was given a score of six out of ten, as compared to the iPhone which got a seven
The guys over at iFixt have given Google’s new smartphone, the Pixel XL, the teardown treatment. The new device got a repairability score of six out of a possible 10. This means that the device is harder to repair than the Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, both of which got a score of 7. Further, there is almost no mention of HTC anywhere on the phone, save for the battery.
iFixit notes that the procedure for opening up the phone requires the user to open the thin and poorly supported display. This makes it more difficult to open the device without damaging it. Further, the midframe of the Pixel XL is secured by screws as well as press-fit notches, thereby making removal and repairs difficult. However, iFixit noted that most of the components of the phone are modular, and can be easily replaced once the display is removed. The battery also comes with a removal tab, making its removal easier. Adding to this is the fact that the Pixel XL only uses one type of screw.
While the Pixel XL may not be as ready to repair as Apple’s new devices, at least it’s much easier to repair than the company’s last large screen flagship. The Nexus 6P was given a repairability score of just two by iFixit.