iFixit's repair pros have them apple watch ultra unscrewed and looked at how well or badly the new Smartwatch from Cupertino can be repaired. It was emphasized that there are four screws on the back, which simplify opening from this side. However, a few obstacles follow; and opening the Apple Watch Ultra from the display can cause the same to break. The siren was also tried out and a few comments made about the display durability. Both statements do not agree with tests that can also be found on YouTube.
Chapter in this post:
Apple Watch Ultra Teardown video from iFixit
The video that iFixit has published on the in-house YouTube channel shows the individual steps for disassembling the watch. An X-ray image is also presented beforehand, thanks to which one can see, among other things, how well the GPS antennas for the double L1 and L5 location signal are placed. As a good step towards improved Apple Watch repairability, the screws on the back are highlighted.
Unfortunately, the seal against water and dust is destroyed when you open it afterwards and has to be renewed when you put it back together. Another disadvantage: you can't access the battery from the back - so the display has to be removed to replace it, which poses a risk. You can find the complete video with the teardown under 5 minutes here:
Comments on the siren and the durability of the display
In the video shown, the siren, which is intended to ensure that people in the vicinity or people rushing to help find you in an emergency, is switched on. But that's still not a real test. Because the siren is activated in a workshop and then only the volume is evaluated. You can find a realistic test that shows that the Apple Watch Ultra siren can be heard over long distances outdoors due to its frequencies with this link or in the video below this paragraph.
In addition, as part of the iFixit teardown, it is said that the display could break relatively quickly if it is e.g. B. when climbing hits a rock. But it wasn't tested and shown - you can find a (admittedly a bit sensational and not very realistic) display test with this link or in the video below this paragraph. It shows that hitting it with a hammer first breaks the table and then the Apple Watch Ultra display. There are other exaggerated device tests on the corresponding YouTube channel, for example for accident detection of the iPhone 14 Pro.
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After graduating from high school, Johannes completed an apprenticeship as a business assistant specializing in foreign languages. But then he decided to research and write, which resulted in his independence. For several years he has been working for Sir Apfelot, among others. His articles include product introductions, news, manuals, video games, consoles, and more. He follows Apple keynotes live via stream.