GoKawiiliFixit teardown gives Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 mixed repair scores
iFixit completed its teardown of the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, finding the Ultra 4 unchanged in repairability at 4/10 while the Series 12 showed slight gains thanks to new stretch-release adhesive and a pull tab for battery removal. Both models still require prying off a glued display to access internals, with iFixit's Shahram Mokhtari noting the Series 12's tighter display tolerances raised concern about screen damage during disassembly.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings suggest Apple is making incremental, component-level repair tweaks rather than overhauling its watch designs, which could mean repair costs and difficulty remain largely similar for most users. The glued-display design across both models continues to be flagged by iFixit as the main barrier to easier self-repair or third-party servicing.
- Apple Watch Ultra 4 scored 4/10 for repairability, unchanged from the Ultra 3.
- Apple Watch Series 12 saw a modest repairability boost via easier battery removal.
- Both models still require removing a glued screen to access internal components, a persistent repair challenge.
iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit — If you're curious about tinkering with your Apple Watch like iFixit does, this toolkit has the precision drivers, spudgers, and opening picks needed for delicate electronics teardown and repair. It's the same kind of gear referenced in iFixit's own teardown work, making it a natural companion for DIY repair enthusiasts.
See iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Marcus Mendes, 2026-10-06
Published there as: “iFixit tears down Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, finds mixed repairability results”
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