The choices Apple made with the iPhone 16e weren't meant to please all critics and consumers, and while most were unhappy with the $599 price, the company at least made battery replacement easier. This is thanks to a method currently used in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus that allows the battery to be effortlessly pried open by applying a low-voltage current. This means less work for Apple Authorized Repair Centers, which reduces battery replacement costs (assuming the battery starts to age after a few years).
The current used for the iPhone 16e battery can come from an external battery or even a USB-C charger, as long as it stays within the recommended voltage thresholds.
Although the 3961mAh battery capacity allows the iPhone 16e to run longer than any other 6.1-inch iPhone, the battery's rated life will one day start to shrink because battery degradation prevents it from holding the same charge. Previously, Apple could remove the battery from the iPhone with a pull tab, but the iPhone 16e eliminated this small but crucial feature in favor of a more efficient method.
This method uses a 9V battery, USB-C charger or any other power source to pass low voltage current through the battery and charging port, and REWA Technology demonstrates the simplicity of this method. The battery is ejected directly and new components can be inserted into the corresponding positions.
The only possible drawbacks to this method are that people who want to replace the iPhone 16e battery themselves cannot complete the replacement process without professional equipment, and forcefully prying the battery may risk puncturing the battery. However, the tab sometimes tears, and repair experts have to use isopropyl alcohol to soften the adhesive holding the battery in place so they can be removed.
It is reported that the same convenience will be introduced to the iPhone 17 series later this year, which will make battery replacement easier. Now, all Apple needs to do is transition to silicon-carbon batteries.