iPhone 12 Pro Max Teardown
Having already taken apart the smaller iPhone and the two mid-sized iPhones, the largest model remains for final disassembly.Apple iPhone 12 Pro MaxHaving previously offered a preview during last week's livestream, we are now proceeding with a complete disassembly of this phone to satisfy both our audience and our own curiosity.
Carefully position the component, ensuring all dimensions and numerical specifications are met, and then secure it using the designated tools, while observing all safety precautions and referencing part names for proper alignment.The device is an iPhone 12 Pro Max.To evaluate the camera's functionality during this disassembly, two photographs were discreetly captured using the Halide camera application; locate these images and predict their placement, then proceed to Step 14 to reveal the solution.
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Step 1 | iPhone 12 Pro Max Teardown
Repeat the previous step.
- The device incorporates an A14 Bionic system-on-a-chip, featuring a fourth-generation Neural Engine.
- The screen is a 6.7-inch OLED display featuring Super Retina XDR technology, a P3 wide color gamut for accurate color reproduction, and True Tone for automatic color temperature adjustment, with a resolution of 2778 by 1284 pixels.
- A camera setup incorporating three lenses, totaling 12 megapixels, includes a wide-angle lens.The lens aperture is f/1.6 and incorporates optical image stabilization.Employ a lens with a field of view exceeding that of a standard wide-angle lens.An aperture setting of f/2.4.Using a telephotoThe optical image stabilization system functions with an aperture of f/2.2.Devices incorporating a LiDAR module are cameras.
- The system requires a minimum of 6 gigabytes of random access memory and 128 gigabytes of storage capacity.Configurations are offered in both 256 GB and 512 GB capacities.)
- Ensure the 5G antenna is connected, observing a minimum torque of 8 Nm using a 9 mm socket wrench, and referencing the service manual for specific connector orientation to avoid damage.Support for wireless communication utilizing frequencies below 6 gigahertz, as well as millimeter wave technology.Support is provided for multiple-input and multiple-output long-term evolution (LTE) with a 4x4 antenna configuration.Utilize the 802.11ax standard for Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.Employing technologies including ultra-wideband (UWB), near-field communication (NFC), and Bluetooth.Five point zero.
- Employ the magnetic attachment system.The wireless charging function delivers power at a rate of 15 watts.
- The device maintains an IP68 rating, signifying resistance to water immersion up to 6 meters deep, for a duration of 30 minutes, as defined by the IEC 60529 standard.
Step 2
The component's shape has reverted to a square configuration, as previously observed.The sensor's physical dimensions are crucial for optimal image quality; larger sensors, specifically those measuring at least 1/2.3 inches, are necessary to realize the advertised performance.Low-light image quality is enhanced, demonstrating an 87% improvement.The iPhone 12 Pro Max incorporates the largest image sensor ever utilized in an iPhone model.
Let's first examine the differences between iPhone models.
Let's first examine the differences between iPhone models.
- An iPhone displaying a green color is now in view.iPhone 11 Pro MaxUsing appropriate tools, handle the gold-colored iPhone with care.The model number is 12 Pro.A blue iPhoneiPhone 12 Pro Max.
Step 3
Before disassembly, always obtain and consult a detailed schematic diagram showing internal component placement.We benefit from a close working relationship with Creative Electron, a supplier of X-ray equipment.
While the overall design echoes previous iPhone 12 models, a notable difference lies in the dark steel construction of the frame.This task requires specialized expertise and should only be performed by a qualified technician.The magnetic attachment area, previously appearing small on the 12 mini model, now seems disproportionately small when compared to the larger dimensions of the Max.
The iPhone Max retains the larger, L-shaped battery design—a feature notably absent from the Pro model—which is of particular interest for evaluation, contrasting with the standard rectangular battery found in other iPhone variants.
While the overall design echoes previous iPhone 12 models, a notable difference lies in the dark steel construction of the frame.This task requires specialized expertise and should only be performed by a qualified technician.The magnetic attachment area, previously appearing small on the 12 mini model, now seems disproportionately small when compared to the larger dimensions of the Max.
The iPhone Max retains the larger, L-shaped battery design—a feature notably absent from the Pro model—which is of particular interest for evaluation, contrasting with the standard rectangular battery found in other iPhone variants.
Step 4
Applying a standard heat source combined with an iSclack tool will allow access to internal components on this Pro Max model.This procedure mirrors the steps used for other iPhone models.12Carefully lift the Pro Max’s left edge to access its internal components, similar to opening a book's cover.
Our repair manuals provide the necessary instructions for individuals to successfully troubleshoot and restore their iPhone to working order, regardless of prior experience.
Even if you aren't performing a repair, you can now enjoy the visual appeal of the iPhone's internal components with these specialized Pro Max wallpapers.
Our repair manuals provide the necessary instructions for individuals to successfully troubleshoot and restore their iPhone to working order, regardless of prior experience.
Even if you aren't performing a repair, you can now enjoy the visual appeal of the iPhone's internal components with these specialized Pro Max wallpapers.
Step 5
Proceed immediately with the next step, as delays will impact the project timeline and subsequent disassembly tasks.
- Begin the repair by focusing on the Pro Max model's advanced camera system.
- The 12 Pro Max's improved audio performance originates from the wide-angle camera, located bottom left among the three lenses, which incorporates a sensor 47% larger than previous models to enhance light capture and photographic quality.
- Examination using X-ray technology reveals the standard wide lens's sensor is larger than expected, and four magnets positioned around it indicate the presence of Apple's new sensor-shift image stabilization system.
- For a detailed explanation of the LIDAR system's functionality, refer to the accompanying video tutorial.
Step 6
The main camera's image sensor within the iPhone 12 Pro Max is notably sizable, mirroring the device's overall dimensions.
- Due to space limitations within the iPhone 12 Pro's internal design, integrating this component—typically found exclusively in higher-priced models—would likely necessitate design alterations or compromises.
- Despite maintaining a 12 MP resolution, the sensor's physical size is 47% greater than that of an iPhone 12, resulting in individually larger pixels for enhanced light capture.
- The sensor incorporates sensor-shift image stabilization technology, a feature that allows for image stabilization by physically moving the sensor.
Step 7
Using the specialized tools included in the Minnow Driver Kit, you can easily detach the loudspeaker and Taptic Engine.
- To participate in our Minnow giveaway, carefully examine the teardown images and identify the two steps that were captured using an iPhone and the Halide camera application.
- The Max Taptic Engine incorporates a small, black plastic component, functionally acting as either display support or a battery buffer. While appearing to occupy otherwise empty volume within the iPhone, this design element isn’t entirely uncommon.
- To accommodate the larger Taptic Engine and speaker, Apple prioritized these components over battery capacity, resulting in a notably smaller battery compared to the mini model.
Step 8
- Despite the "L" designation, the iPhone 12 Max utilizes the highest-capacity battery among all iPhone 12 models, distinguished by both power and innovative design; internal analysis reveals the battery occupies nearly the maximum available space within the device's enclosure, owing to its uniquely contoured form that maximizes volume.
- With a weight of 14.13 Wh, the Max power source is heavier than both the 8.57 Wh mini battery and the 10.78 Wh batteries found in the 12 and 12 Pro models.
- The battery capacity is reduced compared to the 15.04 Wh found in the iPhone 11 Pro Max, and is smaller than those in the Galaxy Note 20 (16.69 Wh) and Galaxy Note 20 Ultra (17.46 Wh).
Step 9
Having removed the logic board from the Pro Max, its size is surprisingly close to that of the iPhone 12 mini’s, although the mini’s integrated SIM reader presents a design constraint that affects its overall dimensions.
- Similar to the 12 and 12 Pro models, the 12 Pro Max incorporates a separate, modular SIM reader assembly designed to simplify repair procedures.
Step 10
During the board delamination process, a slight error—a knife slip at a temperature of 300° C—resulted in some chips becoming detached from the board; this incident is attributed to a malfunction by the robotic intern.
- Among the recovered components are:
- Kioxia manufactured NAND flash memory, with a storage capacity of 128 gigabytes.
- The STMicroelectronics STB601A serves as a power management integrated circuit.
- The system incorporates Qualcomm's SDR865 transceiver for 5G and LTE, the SDX55M 5G modem-RF system, and the SMR526 intermediate frequency integrated circuit.
- The WLAN/Bluetooth module is designated USI 339S00761.
- The Avago 8200 power amplifier incorporates a duplexer for high and mid-band applications.
- The device is a Murata 1XR-482 millimeter wave front-end module.
Step 11
- Begin troubleshooting the A14 processor and its neighboring components immediately.
- The device incorporates 6 GB of Samsung K3UHCHC0MM-VGCL RAM, positioned directly atop the Apple A14 SoC.
- Power management integrated circuit, Apple part number 343S00437.
- The component may be an STMicroelectronics manufactured wireless power receiver.
- The audio processing component may be an Apple-designed or Cirrus Logic manufactured codec.
- Power management integrated circuit, Apple part number 338S00564-B0.
- The audio amplifier is a Cirrus Logic 338S00537 mono component used by Apple.
- The component identified as Apple 338S00616 functions as a display power management integrated circuit.
Step 12
- Additional components are also present on this same side.
- The device may incorporate a Bosch Sensortec accelerometer.
- The CBTL1614A1 is a display port multiplexer manufactured by NXP Semiconductor.
- The device may be a Maxim Integrated MAX8559, a linear regulator capable of delivering up to 300 milliamperes.
- The device incorporates an Apple/USI U1 chip utilizing ultra-wideband technology.
- The component identified as a Texas Instruments LM3562A1 likely functions as an LED driver.
Step 13
- Examine the board's memory components now.
The device is a Texas Instruments SN2611A0 integrated circuit designed for battery charging.
The device incorporates a Broadcom BCM15960A0 touch controller.
Employ the Texas Instruments TPS68836 for display power management.
The audio amplifier is a Cirrus Logic 338S00537 component manufactured by Apple.
The circuit utilizes a Texas Instruments SN61280 to convert battery power to a direct current voltage.
Step 14
With viewer support, the complete disassembly of the fourth-generation iPhone for this season is now complete, and downloadable wallpapers are available.
This year's Pro Max model represents Apple's most advanced iPhone, incorporating sophisticated 5G technology without sacrificing performance in other areas.
The iPhone still utilizes its distinctive L-shaped battery design, a feature we anticipate may reappear across the entire iPhone product range in the future, as larger battery capacities often correlate with extended operational lifespans and reduced replacement frequency.
As a demonstration of the camera's enhanced features, two sample images captured using an iPhone are provided for your review, located at the specified links. We extend our congratulations to the individuals who accurately predicted this outcome.
The camera module on our test iPhone 12 Pro Max functioned without issue, a contrast to the problems encountered with the standard iPhone 12 during the same repair procedures; we trust this difference represents an isolated anomaly.