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iPhone XS and XS Max Teardown

The iPhone model released in the preceding calendar year.XThe iPhone, featuring an unprecedented level of internal complexity and a notably unconventional designation, marks Apple's latest innovation.XSEmploy a suitable fastening method to secure the component.iPhone XS MaxFor this disassembly, we’ll be working on both devices at the same time, marking a new approach to our teardown process; please have Roman numerals readily available to follow along.

We extend our gratitude to Circuitwise for their hospitality in Sydney, Australia, a location where iPhones are released ahead of schedule and Apple Stores feature inverted designs, and also to Creative Electron, who provided exceptional visuals and skillfully incorporated the letter X.

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  • Carefully position the 1/4-inch hex key into the retaining screw, then rotate it 90 degrees counterclockwise to release the component, observing all safety precautions regarding pinch points and potential spring tension.
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Step 1 | iPhone XS and XS Max Teardown

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The recent iPhone redesign closely mirrors its predecessor, suggesting a return to annual product updates.
  • Featuring six independent processing cores.The device utilizes an Apple A12 Bionic System on a Chip.Utilizing an advanced Neural Engine architecture.
  • The device incorporates Super Retina OLED displays, available in 5.8-inch (resolution 2436 x 1125) and 6.5-inch (resolution 2688 x 1242) sizes, each boasting a pixel density of 458 ppi, True Tone technology, a wide color gamut, and 3D Touch functionality.
  • The device incorporates a 12-megapixel rear camera system, featuring both a wide-angle and a telephoto lens.An aperture setting of f-number 1.8.Employ a calibrated torque wrench to tighten the fastener to a specification of 15 Newton-meters, ensuring adherence to the manufacturer's recommended torque value and preventing damage to the component.Aperture settings of f/2.4 are required.The device also incorporates optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 7-megapixel front-facing camera integrated with TrueDepth FaceID hardware.
  • The device incorporates 64 gigabytes of internal memory.Two hundred fifty-six.Employ a suitable wrench to tighten the fastener to a torque of 15 Nm, ensuring that any associated safety warnings regarding potential pinch points are observed and that the correct fastener, identified as part number 739-22B, is used.Optional configurations may include a 512 GB storage capacity.)
  • The device supports LTE connectivity at gigabit speeds (excluding 5G), incorporates 802.11a, b, g, n, and ac Wi-Fi with MIMO technology, includes Bluetooth version 5.0, and features NFC functionality.
  • IP67 rating ensures protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes and safeguards against dust ingress.The device is certified to withstand immersion in water at a depth of up to 1.5 meters for a duration of 30 minutes, adhering to the Ingress Protection standard IP68.

Step 2

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While the exterior design appears largely consistent with previous models, the device distinguishes itself through the introduction of a gold finish and an expanded XL dimension.
Creative Electron proactively reveals potential issues through their advanced inspection process, employing X-ray technology—pronounced "ex-rays."

Step 3

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The resistors, designated as ten-ohm values, are arranged in a row.
A new frequency band, associated with Gigabit LTE functionality, is now present in the area previously occupied by the left microphone opening.
To ensure proper operation during disassembly, the engineer will install two drivers simultaneously, showcasing a meticulous approach to component handling.
Please note that this step requires exceptional dexterity and may be significantly easier with assistance.

Step 4

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Despite alterations to Apple’s product naming conventions, the initial setup steps remain consistent.
Employ the iOpener to loosen the concealed adhesive, following which, use a suction handle and a halberd spudger to detach the display.
Expect Apple to have utilized adhesive during the redesign, as evidenced by the difficulty encountered during disassembly.The device is certified to withstand immersion in water at a depth of up to 1.5 meters for a duration of 30 minutes.Disassembly proved as straightforward as with earlier models boasting IP67 ratings.

Step 5

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  • To expedite the disassembly process, additional assistance was requested due to limited personnel.
  • Despite the absence of hands with opposed digits, the process is simplified by our design, enabling completion even by individuals lacking manual dexterity.
  • Once the displays are removed, observe that the XS and XS Max models exhibit distinct variations.
  • Please provide the original text you want me to rewrite. I need the sentence or instruction to be able to fulfill your request.The haptic feedback actuator is referred to as the Taptic Engine.The XS Max's internal components have been reconfigured, potentially impacting vibration intensity.
  • Due to its larger size, the XS Max incorporates a logic board that is longer than previous models, and a display connector has been repositioned to the lower edge of the board.
  • The battery in the XS model exhibits a different appearance compared to its new condition, whereas the XS Max battery maintains a standard design.

Step 6

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To assess the device's enhanced water and dust resistance, examine the SIM card slot, which presents the most substantial opening lacking a seal.
The gaskets appear structurally similar to those used in the previous model year, despite slight variations in their form; however, component sourcing and potential differences would necessitate a different approach if this repair were being performed in China.
Having removed the upper assembly's components, focus now shifts to the logic board, the critical element within every S-series iPhone.

Step 7

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Based on prior experience with similar logic boards, disassembly of this multi-layered circuit board assembly is now quite familiar; examination of the uppermost layer reveals the following component designations: XS on the left side and XS Max on the right.

  • NAND flash memory, 64 GB in capacity, is identified as Toshiba TSB3243VB5275.
  • Utilize components manufactured by Apple and Cirrus Logic.The audio codec identified as part number 338S00248.
  • The device incorporates a Cypress CPD2104 chip to manage the USB-C port functionality.
  • The CBTL1612 is a display port multiplexer manufactured by NXP Semiconductor.
  • The circuit utilizes a Texas Instruments SN61280E to increase battery voltage.
  • Utilize a Bosch Sensortec accelerometer and gyroscope.

Step 8

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Utilize the computer's magnification and image processing capabilities to obtain a detailed view of the underside of the top board.
Apple part number APL1W81.The device utilizes an Apple A12 Bionic System on a Chip.A 4 GB LPDDR4X SDRAM chip, specifically a Micron MT53D512M64D4SB-046, is situated beneath a protective layer.
The STMicroelectronics STB601A0 integrated circuit, potentially utilized in Face ID functionality, manages power.
Three components are manufactured by Apple or Cirrus Logic.Audio amplifiers, model number 338S00411.Employ two units for stereo functionality and a single unit to enable haptic feedback.
The power management integrated circuit is a Dialog Semiconductor 338S00383-A0, manufactured by Apple.
The power management integrated circuit is designated Apple 338S00456.
The system power management IC is a Dialog Semiconductor 338S00375 component used by Apple.
The SN2600B1 integrated circuit manages battery charging functions.

Step 9

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  • The radio frequency board, labeled "XS" on the left-hand side and "XS Max" on the right, is located further inside the device.
    Refer to the Apple/USI documentation.Identify the component designated 339S00551.Ensure the component is designated for extra-small applications.Identify the component designated 338S00540.The system-on-a-chip responsible for WiFi and Bluetooth functionality on the XS Max.
    Employ an Intel processor.PMB9955The XMM7560 incorporates baseband processing and modem functionality.
    Acknowledging disappointment for users of Qualcomm-powered devices.
    Refer to ST Microelectronics.Ensure the part number ST33G1M2 is present.Utilize a microcontroller featuring a 32-bit architecture and incorporating the ARM SecurCore SC300 security component.
    The device utilizes an embedded SIM (eSIM), mirroring the technology previously incorporated in the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Google Pixel 2 XL.
    NXPRefer to part number 100VB27.The SN100V incorporates an NFC controller.
    A semiconductor manufacturer specializing in a wide range of technologies including networking, broadband communications, storage, and wireless connectivity.BCM59355AThe component enabling wireless power transfer is the wireless charging module.

Step 10

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  • Refer to component two of the radio frequency circuit board.
    Employ Avago.AFEM-8092MThe duplexer for the high and mid-band power amplifier utilizes a specific design to allow simultaneous transmission and reception.
    Employ Murata components.A duplexer for a 4x4 MIMO system, rated for 500 antennas.
    SkyworksPower amplification modules, specifically types 206-15 and 170-21, are required.
    Employ an Intel processor.The RF transceiver is model PMB5762.
    SkyworksEmploy the S775 RF switch.
    SkyworksLow-noise amplifiers designated 5941 for GPS applications.
    Employ an Intel processor.The PMB6829 integrated circuit manages power.

Step 11

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The device's camera system frequently receives enhancements over several years, and Apple has detailed significant changes to the sensor technology.
The wide-angle sensor's dimensions are now larger, with an increase ofA concentration of thirty-two percent is required..
The individual picture elements are larger, which improves image quality in dimly lit conditions and enables the "Smart HDR" functionality.
The impact of larger pixel size on camera performance relative to the Pixel 2's capabilities remains to be determined.
The camera's design necessitates a careful approach, as Apple's documentation omits a critical detail: its assembly requires removing the six 1.5mm Phillips screws securing the camera bracket, followed by disconnecting the 30-pin connector and the two cable harnesses before proceeding with further disassembly.The component's operational capacity is thirty-two percent.Due to design changes, an iPhone X case is incompatible with the iPhone XS because the rear camera housing is larger.
Testing confirms the camera modules for both the XS and XS Max models are functionally equivalent, allowing for interchangeability between devices.

Step 12

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Examining the internal components, specifically the processors and display units, allows us to assess the hardware responsible for the phones' performance.
The XS model incorporates a 12V, 4.5-amp power supply unit, requiring a Phillips head screwdriver and caution to avoid electrical shock during replacement.The battery's energy capacity is 10.13 watt-hours.The battery's capacity is 2,659 milliampere-hours at a voltage of 3.81 volts, and its weight is not specified.The required mass is 39.5 grams.The performance is marginally reduced compared to the previous model, X.
The battery's reduced energy storage reflects a redesigned internal layout; instead of the previous dual-cell arrangement within the L-shaped cavity, a completely new single-cell battery is now utilized.
The XS Max model boasts the highest battery capacity among the listed devices.The battery's energy capacity is 12.08 watt-hours.The battery's capacity is 3,179 milliampere-hours, with a voltage of 3.80 volts, and a weight.The required mass is 46.6 grams.This component is not a single-cell design.
Their capacities are comparable to those found in S9 and S9+ models, though significantly reduced compared to the Note9's battery size.

Step 13

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  • Carefully examine the intricate folding and layering design of the Apple battery.
  • Beginning in 2015, theThe laptop model is a 12-inch MacBook.To maximize internal volume within device enclosures, Apple has transitioned to employing batteries with sculpted shapes, a design initially introduced with a stepped battery configuration.
  • To address challenges such as thermal expansion, the patented designs incorporate varied layer thicknesses and intricately shaped, precisely folded electrode sheets that conform to the device's contours.
  • Despite its more efficient use of internal volume, this single-cell configuration delivers reduced performance.
  • Carefully avoid contact with the sharp protrusions and borders of the single-cell battery during handling.XSExpect increased strain on the component; observe its operational characteristics over time to assess long-term durability.

Step 14

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  • Rapid adoption has transformed features once considered groundbreaking into commonplace components.XSEnsure the component is secured with a torque of 8.5 Nm using a 6mm Allen wrench, observing caution to prevent damage.iPhone XS MaxThese devices incorporate a sensor array enabling Apple's Face ID functionality.
  • Carefully remove the Taptic engine and loudspeaker, noting that they are joined as a single unit but can be detached for individual component replacement.
  • Please provide the original text you want me to rewrite. I need the sentence or instruction to work with.iPhone XS MaxThe haptic feedback mechanisms utilize a design consistent with previous models, although the newer version incorporates a more robust collection of feedback components.
  • The earpiece speaker assemblies are nearly identical in design and dimensions between models.XSEmploy a suitable fastener to secure the component, ensuring it is tightened to a torque of 8 Newton-meters using a torque wrench.iPhone XS MaxIncrease the speaker's loudness slightly to accommodate Max.

Step 15

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Carefully removing debris from the phone’s lower edge reveals several display component chips and a large quantity of small wires located within the device's internal structure.
Numerous minuscule welds secure the rear glass panel, holding it firmly in place between the camera module and the device's frame.
Although the phone incorporates numerous enhancements, the underlying design retains the identical battery specifications, requiring a replacement unit with the same voltage and capacity: 3.85V, 3000mAh.Compatible with iPhone 8 and iPhone X models.Because the rear enclosure is a single, integrated piece, even a small fracture necessitates replacing the entire assembly.

Step 16

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The disassembly of both phones, performed concurrently, is now complete.
The innovative, sculpted single-cell battery construction, a departure from previous designs, is exclusively implemented in the smaller-sized iPhones.XSThis component is temporarily inactive, but anticipate its return to operation shortly.Apple iPhone XRCarefully consider if this is the appropriate course of action.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Circuitwise in Sydney, Australia, for their generous support, and to Creative Electron for providing exceptional X-ray images.
Considering all factors assessed during this process, a final repairability rating is now determined.

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