Display-First Disassembly Creates Repair Hurdles
On September 20, teardown specialist iFixit published preliminary findings indicating that the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max present significant obstacles to hardware repair. According to a report from CNET, the primary technical bottleneck stems from the fact that most internal component servicing procedures require removing the display assembly first.
Fragile Plastic Frame Backing
Specifically, iFixit's teardown process revealed that the displays on the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max utilize a delicate, sensitive plastic frame backing. Because technicians must remove the screen to access virtually any internal part, this plastic frame introduces a high risk of cracking or display damage during servicing without specialized tools and precisely applied separation force.
Official Repairability Score Pending
According to CNET, although the report clearly outlines the complexities of opening the display, official repairability scores for the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max have not yet been released. Comprehensive evaluations regarding the independent modular replacement of other internal assemblies—such as the battery, logic board, and camera sensors—remain pending.