The gadget is far from simple to fix or disassemble.
Key points to consider:
– An iFixit teardown video showcases the considerable challenges one would face when attempting to repair a Galaxy Z Fold 7.
– The “pull tab” method for battery removal is deemed “subpar,” as it demands excessive force, risking damage to the battery or tearing the tab.
– Any camera-related damage necessitates disassembling the phone, but the inner display is very delicate and challenging to manage, indicating it should only be taken out if it is already broken.
– In 2024, iFixit severed ties with Samsung due to a discrepancy in their repairability values.
A breakdown of Samsung’s newest Galaxy Z Fold 7 reveals significant issues if something goes awry.
In a video by iFixit discussing the repairability of the Galaxy Z Fold 7, the channel outlines the numerous challenges one would encounter with this device (via 9to5Google). At the start, the video highlights the troubles associated with taking off the foldable’s display, as Samsung employed a “heatless back panel removal” method, leading to various complications. Consequently, they had to access the device through its camera area.
Extracting the first battery feels like navigating a labyrinth—if the labyrinth were filled with cables, screws (and even more screws), and press connectors. The first battery removal, or rather Samsung’s method for it, was another complaint for iFixit. The video mentions that the Fold 7 comes with a slim pull tab. Although this appears practical, iFixit notes that these tabs require “excessive force” and could result in tearing.
Additionally, using too much force on the tab could warp the battery, jeopardizing its integrity.
After dislodging the motherboard (another labyrinth), iFixit approaches the camera. This is crucial because, as per iFixit, Samsung employed a similar framework to its other models. However, this necessitates a “full disassembly” of the device if camera issues arise.
Fears Surrounding the Inner Display
The inner display of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is likely to be the biggest nightmare for any potential repair technician. The teardown suggests that the inner display is the most “delicate” component of this device, a fact exacerbated by Samsung’s latest improvements aimed at achieving 500,000 folds (~10 years). The bezels are secured with glue, compelling iFixit to resort to uncomfortable methods for their removal.
Furthermore, the company emphasizes that the inner display should only be detached if it is already compromised. This is due to the inner screen being “susceptible to pressure and twisting,” so by the completion of this teardown, the display was largely rendered unusable.
Let’s hope your Fold 7’s inner display remains intact, as iFixit reports a staggering $589 for its replacement. You can view iFixit’s complete teardown of the Fold 7 to understand the factors contributing to its low 3 out of 10 repairability rating.
Challenging and complex
The reference to glued parts in the Galaxy Z Fold 7 teardown serves as a reminder of iFixit’s decision to part ways with Samsung last year. The organization stated that this choice stemmed from a mismatch in their repairability beliefs in regard to consumer needs. Their announcement indicated that Samsung’s devices are “glued together,” making it exceedingly challenging for iFixit to supply necessary components for users without inflating costs.
Also, we should recall that our own Andrew Myrick had a dreadful experience trying to get a Galaxy Z Fold 4 fixed.
During its announcement, iFixit mentioned that despite severing ties with Samsung, it wouldn’t cease all parts supply immediately. The company will continue to seek out components whenever feasible; however, those helpful guides iFixit typically offers will no longer be produced.
