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Repair experts at iFixit have torn down an Apple Watch Ultra, and despite the access screws, the screen alone makes it a difficult repair.
The repair company has a video on YouTube explaining the process and may post a blog post detailing the teardown later. The screen seems hard to repair, with the test model even reaching iFixit’s professional hands.
The Apple Watch Ultra is the company’s solution for users in extreme conditions. The new Apple Watch features a rugged titanium design with a 49mm display, action button, dual-band GPS and more.
This Apple Watch model has exposed screws on the back of the case, marking the first time Apple has done so with its Apple Watch series. But, because of the screen, the watch as a whole is still a difficult repair.
There’s a gasket under the screen that iFixit says behaves like glue. It was destroyed when the watch back plate was removed, which means official repair by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider may be required to keep this part intact. During disassembly, a seal essential to the water resistance of the device was broken.
With this seal intact, the Apple Watch complies with EN13319, which is an internationally recognized standard for computers and dive gauges. It operates at a maximum depth of 130 feet or 40 meters. Without it, there is no resistance.
Other components, such as the Taptic Engine and battery, require the display to be removed first.
The teardown also confirmed the specs of the Apple Watch Ultra. It has a 2.1 watt-hour battery, which is 60% larger than the Apple Watch Series 8 at 1.19 watt-hours.