Mikkel Christensen
Smartphone design is becoming more advanced, but also harder to fix. Experts say this trend is making repairs more expensive and less accessible for users.
Smartphone design is becoming more advanced, but also harder to fix. Experts say this trend is making repairs more expensive and less accessible for users.
A new study highlights how major brands compare. Some of the biggest names are falling behind when it comes to repairability.
Industry concern
The U.S. PIRG Education Fund’s “Failing the Fix 2026” report points to ongoing problems across the market. Many devices remain difficult to open and repair.
Design choices such as glued components and limited spare parts are a key issue. These decisions can increase costs for consumers over time.
According to BGR, the findings reflect a broader industry shift. Manufacturers are prioritising design and performance over repairability.
Lowest performer
Samsung ranks at the bottom among major Android brands. The study gave the company a “D” grade for repairability.
Other manufacturers performed better. Motorola received a “B+”, while Google was rated “C-”.
Apple ranked lowest overall across all brands included. The results suggest repairability remains a widespread challenge.
How it’s measured
The study uses data from the EU’s EPREL system. It looks at factors like ease of disassembly, repair documentation and spare parts availability.
Software support also plays a role in the scoring. Devices that receive longer updates are considered more sustainable.
Companies linked to anti-repair lobbying groups lost points. Motorola was the only brand that avoided penalties in this category.
Why it matters
Samsung’s ranking reflects a longer pattern. According to BGR, its devices have also scored poorly in iFixit repairability tests.
Many modern phones are built with sealed designs for durability. While this improves water resistance, it makes repairs more difficult.
This creates a trade-off between design and usability. Consumers may face higher costs when devices break.
Bigger picture
Repairability is becoming more important as smartphones get more expensive. It also plays a role in reducing electronic waste.
Experts say stronger standards could push manufacturers to improve. For now, buyers focused on repairability may need to choose carefully.
Sources: BGR, U.S. PIRG Education Fund
