Apple recently updated its 24-inch iMac, using a 3nm SoC (M3) for the first time in the series, and teardown expert iFixit has dismantled the all-in-one machine. This teardown shows that while some aspects of the machine are "very easy to disassemble," other aspects are just as difficult, time-consuming, and potentially a headache.
Before 2023 comes to an end, iFixit has released a teardown video of the M3 iMac, showing what internal changes Apple has made to this model. Visually, this iMac is identical to the M1 version, with an unusually slim body, which forced Apple to equip it with an external power supply that also comes with a separate Ethernet port. No matter how thin the chassis is, the 24-inch model can still accommodate an M3 motherboard and feature a better cooling solution than the "fanless" solutions of the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs.
While the 24-inch display can be removed relatively easily by just disconnecting a few cables, the M3iMac itself doesn't work with a VESA mount unless internal screws are used to separate the mount from the rest of the assembly. This means that those with little experience disassembling the M1iMac will be completely unable to use it and will have to seek the services of third-party personnel.
The teardown also revealed that there are a large number of cables and screws in other areas of the M3iMac, most of which are behind stickers and cannot be put back in place after being removed. One notable change that Apple has brought to this "AllinOne" is that it is equipped with a replaceable CMOS battery, but this time there is only a single battery instead of the two on the previous model.
As for the M3iMac's adhesives, the iFixit video host said that while she thinks there are better options for keeping the display attached to other components, she recommends iMac adhesives because they're easy to remove, easy to cut, and easy to reinstall if needed. While iFixit doesn't offer a repairability score for the M3iMac, it looks to be nearly easy to take apart if you have the right tools and enough experience.