Apple’s newly released AirPods Pro 3, launched concurrently with the iPhone 17 series (iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max), have undergone a comprehensive teardown analysis conducted by iFixit. The complete teardown video is embedded below, offering an in-depth look at the internal components and construction of the latest true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds.
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As expected, the diminutive size of the AirPods Pro 3 presents significant challenges to disassembly. The design prioritizes compactness and sealing, rendering component access difficult. While battery removal is reported to be the most straightforward process encountered in any previous AirPods iteration, it remains a technically demanding operation.
The teardown reveals the driver’s vulnerability to damage during removal. Similarly, the internal components within the stem are intricately assembled, making reassembly virtually impossible. The charging case also exhibits non-repairable characteristics. Notably, the case’s battery design has been revised, now utilizing a single-cell configuration, contrasting with the dual-cell design of the preceding AirPods Pro 2.
The AirPods Pro 3 received a repairability score of 0 out of 10 from iFixit, indicating the lowest possible level of repairability. This assessment reflects the inherent difficulties in accessing and replacing components. Even skilled technicians would face significant challenges in reassembling the earbuds while maintaining a functional and sealed unit.
