The right-to-repair movement has been gaining momentum in recent years, leading to the creation of more owner-accessible devices like the Framework laptop. However, smartphone design seems to be heading in the opposite direction, with devices becoming increasingly difficult to open and repair. The Pixel 9 series is a prime example of this trend.
Both iFixit and JerryRigEverything, two reputable sources for repairability coverage, recently got their hands on a Pixel 9. iFixit examined a Pixel 9 XL, while JerryRigEverything took a closer look at a Pixel 9 Pro XL. According to iFixit, Google’s claims of enhanced durability appear to be valid based on the phone’s materials and construction. However, if the phone does sustain damage, repairing it is no easy task.
iFixit found that the Pixel 9 XL’s screen was destroyed almost immediately when attempting to open the phone, a process that experts struggled with. Despite their expertise, they encountered numerous obstacles along the way. While it is possible to replace the battery without removing the screen panel, it is still a challenging task that involves navigating through multiple components, tiny screws, and glued-down parts.
The battery removal process proved to be particularly problematic, requiring the use of a fiddly pull tab system that even three people found difficult to execute. Ultimately, iFixit had to resort to soaking the glue in isopropyl alcohol to weaken it before prying the battery out with a plastic bar. This process left the battery with damaged protective covering and a sticky residue, making reassembly a daunting prospect.
JerryRigEverything’s experience with the Pixel 9 Pro XL was similarly frustrating, with the technician encountering over a dozen screws holding down various components, many of which were non-standard and mismatched. The battery removal process was described as one of the worst, requiring the use of alcohol to weaken the glue and a pry bar to extract the battery.
Both iFixit and JerryRigEverything expressed disappointment in the repairability of the Pixel 9 series, with JerryRigEverything going as far as to say that he could not recommend the phone to anyone due to its difficulty in repair. While Samsung and Apple are also criticized for their lack of repairability in some of their devices, Google’s Pixel 9 series seems to be particularly challenging to work with.
In a landscape where repairability is increasingly becoming a concern, companies like Microsoft are making strides in the right direction with their Surface devices, which feature QR codes linking to repair and replacement guides. However, Google’s efforts in this area fall short, with QR codes on their batteries leading to live support chat instead of actionable instructions or guides.
Despite the availability of more repairable options like the Fairphone, major manufacturers are still prioritizing design over repairability and sustainability in their phone and wearable devices. While Google promises seven years of software updates for its Pixel 9 series, the longevity of these devices in the hands of their owners remains uncertain.
Overall, the Pixel 9 series highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing innovation and repairability in the fast-paced world of smartphone design. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their devices, the pressure is on manufacturers to prioritize repairability and sustainability in their product design.
