### It’s Gonna Break, Just Not the Way You Think It’s Gonna Break
In the constantly changing realm of technology, durability and longevity are becoming more critical for consumers. Following the debut of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google has made ambitious claims regarding the device’s durability and long-term assistance. However, as the adage suggests, “It’s gonna break, just not the way you think it’s gonna break.” This saying aptly represents the situation of contemporary smartphones, including the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Although manufacturers may highlight their devices’ toughness, the reality is that they frequently fail in unforeseen manners, and the true challenge lies in the ease—or difficulty—of repairing them.
#### The Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Case Study in Durability and Repairability
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has sparked considerable debate, particularly after a teardown video by iFixit unveiled some unexpected findings. At first glance, the device seems to be a solid and resilient smartphone, built to endure the demands of everyday use. However, the story shifts when it comes to its repairability.
As per iFixit’s teardown, the Pixel 9 Pro XL obtained a lackluster repairability score of 5 out of 10. This score might be seen as generous, given the challenges faced during the teardown. For instance, even a qualified technician armed with the right equipment found it difficult to open the phone without causing damage to the display. Additionally, extracting the battery turned out to be quite problematic, complicating the repair process further.
Google has emphasized supporting its devices for seven years, but the lingering question is: Can the Pixel 9 Pro XL genuinely survive that long? Regrettably, the answer isn’t as clear-cut as one might wish.
#### The Seven-Year Promise: A Double-Edged Sword
Google’s commitment to providing seven years of support is admirable, yet it introduces its own challenges. While the prospect of using a smartphone for seven years may sound appealing to some, the fact remains that most individuals don’t retain their devices for that lengthy a period. New features, software upgrades, and technological enhancements often lure consumers to switch to newer models well before their current devices hit the seven-year threshold.
Furthermore, even if a device maintains support for seven years, it doesn’t guarantee it will function perfectly throughout that timeframe. Elements like the battery, USB port, and display are susceptible to wear over time, and they may require replacement eventually. Unfortunately, the design of the Pixel 9 Pro XL complicates these repairs unnecessarily, which could discourage users from holding on to their devices for the entire seven years.
#### The Better Way: A Focus on Repairability
The repairability challenges associated with the Pixel 9 Pro XL underscore a wider issue within the smartphone market: the insufficient emphasis on creating devices that are simple to repair. While companies such as Google, Samsung, and Apple are advancing smartphone technology, they often ignore the critical aspect of repairability.
Yet, there are notable exceptions. For instance, the HMD Skyline and Fairphone are two models that prioritize repairability. The HMD Skyline is a mid-tier phone with a three-year support commitment, but it stands out for allowing users to easily access and replace the battery independently. Likewise, the Fairphone boasts a 100% repairability rating, enabling users to swap out components like the battery and USB port without needing expert assistance.
These devices may not enjoy the same level of brand recognition as Google’s Pixel line, but they provide a glimpse into what the future of smartphones could entail. By crafting devices with repairability at the forefront, manufacturers can ensure their products remain functional and relevant for years ahead.
#### Conclusion: A Call to Action for Smartphone Manufacturers
As consumers, we ought to demand more from smartphone manufacturers. It’s insufficient for companies to merely promise prolonged support; they must also construct their devices in such a way that facilitates easy repairs. This approach not only prolongs the lifespan of the device but also minimizes electronic waste and fosters sustainability.
Google, in particular, has a chance to spearhead this movement. By designing upcoming Pixel phones with repairability as a priority, the company can establish a new benchmark for the industry and render its seven-year support promise more impactful.
Ultimately, it’s evident that smartphones will fail—it’s simply a question of when and in what manner. However, by prioritizing repairability, manufacturers can ensure that when a failure occurs, it doesn’t signify the end of the device’s lifespan. Instead, it becomes an opportunity for users to prolong their devices’ life and maximize their investment.
