iPhone 4S Teardown

Acknowledging Markus Weiher, an iFixit user from Germany, we extend our gratitude for contributing several photographs used in this guide.
Following its release, iFixit disassembled the iPhone 4S to reveal its internal components.
Technical specifications follow.

• The processor within Apple's A5 System-on-a-Chip features a dual-core design and operates at a clock speed of 1 GHz.
• The device incorporates an 8-megapixel camera on the rear panel, capable of recording 1080p video, alongside a VGA front-facing camera.
• The device incorporates wireless connectivity supporting 802.11 b/g/n standards alongside Bluetooth version 4.0.
• The screen utilizes a Retina Display technology, incorporating an IPS TFT LCD panel with LED backlighting, and delivers a visual resolution of 960 by 640 pixels.
• This device supports global cellular connectivity, incorporating quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE functionality alongside dual-band CDMA/EV-DO Rev capabilities.

The iPhone 4S is now available for examination.
Maintaining the same rectangular form factor as its predecessor, the iPhone 4S visually resembles the iPhone 4, incorporating identical stainless steel edging along its outer boundaries.
Apple claims to have resolved the antenna connectivity problems that initially appeared with the iPhone 4, raising the question of whether a complimentary case will be provided to customers.
Because the iPhone 4S functions as a global device, it accommodates both GSM and CDMA network compatibility, featuring a micro-SIM slot designed to receive standard GSM micro-SIM cards and CDMA "roaming SIM" cards.

Apple's 4S model has received certification from the Federal Communications Commission.
A1387 designates the iPhone 4S model.
Carefully examine the outer edges of the iPhone 4S for the antenna separation lines.

The iPhone 4S utilizes Pentalobe Screws, and these fasteners remain secured at the device's lower edge.
Using the 5-Point Pentalobe Screwdriver, rotate slightly to detach the components; note that a newly released professional driver, available in a blue/black finish, is now accessible and is guaranteed to offer superior performance compared to other Pentalobe drivers.
Proceeding with the repair, we will disregard any potential error messages or warnings displayed by the device's operating system.

Following a procedure similar to that used for the iPhone 4, proceed to detach the rear cover, exposing the battery and several cushioned electromagnetic interference (EMI) shields.
Siri will prevent further progress, stating that proper authorization is lacking.
Further repair is prohibited at this stage due to a manufacturer restriction indicated on the component label.
Carefully remove the fabric tether securing the component; its presence has not previously hindered the repair process and will not impede this one either.

The battery, recognized for its performance, is now visible for detailed inspection.
Using precise measurement, observe the battery's capacity; you will find it exceeds that of an iPhone 4 by a margin of 0.05 watt-hours.
Compatibility with iPhone 4 is unlikely due to dissimilar connector geometries.
When utilizing a 3G connection, the iPhone 4S provides approximately 8 hours of uninterrupted conversation; on a 2G (GSM) network, this extends to a maximum of 14 hours; and in standby mode, the device can remain powered for as long as 200 hours.
The iPhone 4S provides one additional hour of 3G talk time relative to the iPhone 4, maintains identical 2G talk time performance, but exhibits a 100-hour reduction in standby duration.
Despite the increased processing capabilities and components within the 4S model, its energy usage remains surprisingly low.

Using a spudger, gently separate the rear camera assembly from the device.
The iPhone 4S incorporates an 8-megapixel camera.
Analysis by Chipworks confirmed the camera module's manufacturer to be Sony.
While an 8-megapixel resolution is beneficial, the iPhone 4S’s image quality stems from its processing capabilities, effectively utilizing all available pixels.
The new camera system utilizes a "next-generation backside illumination" technology, resulting in a 73% increase in light intake to enhance performance in dimly lit conditions. Image capture speed is approximately 33% quicker, allowing for the capture of successive photos in under one second.
If still images aren't preferred, the device can also record high-definition video with a resolution of 1080p and a frame rate of 30 frames per second.

Using the provided iPhone opening tool, carefully disengage the logic board.
The logic board inside the iPhone 4S is very similar to the version used in the United States for CDMA networks. Removing the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shields will reveal the extent of these differences.
Considering the L-shaped block is currently unusable, what alternative applications or temporary uses are possible?
Despite the battery's removal, the device will verbally indicate a cessation of operations.
The right-side electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield features a white triangular sticker; this is the liquid indicator, and its presence signals a potential issue.

Carefully detach the electromagnetic interference shields by applying force until they separate, exposing the underlying logic board.
The device utilizes an Apple A5 processor featuring a dual-core architecture, with further details to be provided subsequently.
A die photograph of the Qualcomm RTR8605 multi-band/mode RF Transceiver is available from Chipworks.
The WCDMA-compatible Skyworks 77464-20 module is a load-insensitive power amplifier (LIPA®).
Avago's ACPM-7181 serves as a power amplifier.
The device is a TriQuint TQM9M9030 surface acoustic wave filter.
TriQuint's TQM666052 serves as a power amplifier and duplexer module.

Several additional integrated circuits are present on the main circuit board, notably including those designated as "fun chips."
The touchscreen functionality is managed by the TI 343S0538 controller.
The gyroscope is an STMicro AGD8 2135 LUSDI component.
An STMicro accelerometer, model number 8134 33DH 00D35, measures motion in three axes.
Chipworks analysis indicates the Apple 338S0987 B0FL1129 SGP component is a Cirrus Logic audio codec.

Observe the Apple A5 chip in detail.
This device incorporates a 1 GHz Dual-core processor and 512 MB of DDR2 RAM.

Confirm the memory capacity by examining the marking E4E4; this indicates the presence of two 2 Gb LPDDR2 dies, combining to yield 4 Gb of memory, equivalent to 512 MB. Credit: Anandtech.

Analysis by Chipworks indicates that iPhones manufactured in Germany utilize Samsung-supplied DDR2 RAM, whereas iPhones distributed in Australia incorporate Elpida DDR2 RAM.

The Siri feature is accessible at this location. While iOS 5 devices are compatible with iCloud integration, the Siri functionality is limited to iPhone 4S models that have a dual-core processor.

A photograph of the A5 processor's integrated circuit die was obtained from Chipworks.

Repeat the preceding steps on the opposite component.
Initiate a vehicle rollover maneuver, then acknowledge completion.

The iPhone’s cellular connectivity is managed by a Qualcomm MDM6610 chipset, representing an advancement over the MDM6600 previously used.

Chipworks has identified the component designated Apple 338S0973 as a power management integrated circuit.

Examining the obscured component diagonally will display the marking PM8028, identifying it as a Qualcomm power management integrated circuit.

Use the Murata SW SS1830010.
Based on previous examinations of similar devices, this unit likely incorporates a Broadcom chip responsible for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality.

Removing the additional electromagnetic interference shield reveals another component.
The Toshiba THGVX1G7D2GLA08 utilizes 16 GB of MLC NAND flash memory fabricated using a 24 nanometer process.

Carefully inspect the screen's surface for any damage, noting its dimensions and any visible defects before proceeding; the Retina display is a delicate component.
The screen utilizes a Retina display, mirroring the specifications of the iPhone 4's prior model, with a resolution of 960 pixels by 640 pixels.

Despite potentially utilizing older components, the iPhone maintains a noteworthy display quality, and the A5 processor should deliver enhanced graphical capabilities.

Display assembly mounting tabs differ between Verizon and AT&T iPhone 4 models; although the iPhone 4S display assembly visually resembles the CDMA iPhone 4, a closer inspection reveals it is actually more akin to the GSM iPhone 4 version, but remains distinct.

The display assembly incorporates both the ambient light sensor and the infrared LED used by the proximity sensor.

Carefully note the labels on the display cable to ensure correct reattachment.
Located beneath the display cable, you'll find identifying codes: FA11 110717 4M0 816-0420 05 768 46 37.9 1032 GZ MB, frequently referenced as "Attack at dawn from the north."

Exercise extreme caution; the flex ribbon cable connectors have been unintentionally triggered. Maintain a safe distance, as they appear to be protecting the alphanumeric identifier C1113320826DJGHT-A1MOXF, which may represent a security key.

Carefully remove the vibrator motor; Apple utilized a linear oscillating vibrator, identical to the one found in the Verizon iPhone 4, instead of the rotational electric motor with counterweight present in the AT&T model.
The redesigned motor exhibits reduced noise, gentler operation, and overall improved user experience compared to the previous model with counterbalancing.

Carefully examine the bottom surface of the home button.
This action will not result in the device being launched into space; pressing the home button from this location simply activates its intended function.
Observe the indicator strips, which are colored white and red.

Acknowledge that the user anticipated and permitted inspection of the internal components.
Use a plastic spudger to carefully detach the second camera, which will resolve the issue of the front-facing camera remaining active.
This VGA camera, positioned at the front, is functionally limited to two specific applications.
Use the built-in video calling feature to connect with others.
Capture your own image, similar to the photographic style popularized by platforms like Myspace, Facebook, and Google+.

The repair is complete, and a thorough inspection confirmed the absence of any Cyberdyne Systems parts, suggesting the imminent threat has been averted.
The iPhone 4S achieves a repairability rating of 6 on a scale of 10, with 10 representing the simplest repair process; its design closely mirrors that of the iPhone 4, presenting similar repair challenges.
Disassembly of the iPhone 4S relies largely on screws for securing components, with minimal adhesive contributing to its structural integrity.
Using the appropriate screwdriver, accessing and swapping out the battery and rear panel presents minimal difficulty.
To prevent unauthorized access and secure the device's back cover, Apple has incorporated Pentalobe screws.
Because the LCD and glass components are permanently bonded as a single unit, similar to the prior model, replacing just the glass after it cracks will require a more expensive repair procedure.
Due to numerous small components being affixed to a single ribbon cable via soldering, individual component replacements are significantly more expensive.