How Apple Used to Design Its Laptops for Repairability

Apple's commitment to design-for-repairability has shifted significantly over the years, impacting how consumers and recyclers approach end-of-life devices. How Apple Used to Design Its Laptops for Repairability In 2016, Apple earned a repairability score of 7 out of 10 for its MacBook Pro models due to accessible battery replacement and straightforward hardware components. However, by April 2026, this has dropped sharply as newer MacBooks become harder to disassemble and fix.

Last reviewed by James Hartley on 06 April 2026

How Does This Affect Electronics Recycling?

This shift affects electronics recycling because Apple laptops are now more difficult to repair or refurbish, leading recyclers to focus on extracting valuable materials rather than repairing devices. As a result, fewer Apple products enter the repair economy, contributing to higher e-waste volumes globally.

Apple's move away from repairable design highlights broader industry trends toward planned obsolescence and less consumer autonomy over device maintenance. For instance, the company has increasingly used proprietary screws and glued-in components that prevent DIY repairs or independent servicing. This approach not only frustrates consumers but also complicates recycling processes for professionals who aim to extend product lifespans.

According to the Counterpoint Research, The global refurbished smartphone market was worth $49.3 billion in 2023.

In 2016, Apple's MacBooks boasted a repairability score of 7 out of 10, indicating relatively easy access and replacement of key parts like the battery. However, by April 2026, this score has dropped significantly as newer models employ design strategies that discourage user intervention and encourage more frequent replacements.

Apple's shift towards less repairable devices raises legal questions in regions with right-to-repair laws or regulations. For example, under EU's WEEE Directive, manufacturers are required to ensure products can be easily repaired and recycled. Apple's current designs may conflict with these mandates, potentially leading to regulatory scrutiny and consumer backlash if they don't comply with the directive's requirements for repairability and recyclability.

What Are the Environmental Impacts?

The environmental impact of less repairable devices is substantial given the increasing volume of e-waste globally. According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, the world generates over 62 million tonnes of e-waste annually, with only 22.3% formally recycled worldwide. This means that Apple's products and those from other companies contribute significantly to this waste stream.

less repairable devices lead to higher demand for new materials, exacerbating resource depletion and pollution associated with mining and processing these resources. For instance, a million phones contain approximately 35 kg of gold, 340 kg of silver, and 15 kg of palladium, illustrating the immense value in recycling rather than discarding electronics.

How Can Consumers and Recyclers Adapt?

Consumers can support repairable designs by demanding more transparent information from manufacturers about product lifespans and ease-of-repair features. Additionally, they should look for certifications or third-party repairability scores when purchasing new devices. For recyclers, investing in advanced disassembly technologies to handle glued-in components and proprietary screws becomes important.

Recycling organisations can also advocate for stronger right-to-repair legislation globally. In the US, states like New York have introduced bills that could force companies like Apple to provide access to repair manuals and spare parts. Similar movements are gaining traction across Europe as well, with the EU's WEEE Directive setting collection targets of 65% by weight of electronics placed on the market.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, The value of raw materials in global e-waste was estimated at $91 billion in 2022.

Consumers can also practice sustainable consumption habits by extending their device lifespans through repairs or upcycling projects instead of replacing them entirely. At How Apple Used to Design Its Laptops for Repairability, recycling facilities should focus on safe and efficient disassembly methods to recover valuable materials without causing environmental harm.

What Should Apple Do Now?

Apple needs to reassess its design strategies to align with sustainability goals and legal requirements, especially in jurisdictions enforcing strict right-to-repair laws. How Apple Used to Design Its Laptops for Repairability could start by reinstating previous repairability features or offering more accessible tools for independent service providers and consumers. This wouldn't only comply better with regulations but also build a healthier relationship between tech giants and their user base.

, while Apple's move away from repairable designs complicates recycling efforts and environmental stewardship, proactive measures can mitigate these challenges. By embracing design-for-repairability principles once again, Apple-and other manufacturers-can contribute positively to the circular economy and reduce e-waste generation.

According to the Shift Project, manufacturing a new smartphone produces 50-80kg of co2 equivalent.

For more information on right-to-repair legislation and circular economy practices, visit our guide on right-to-repair and explore how urban mining can recover precious metals from discarded devices.

Sources

• Counterpoint Research
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
• Shift Project