Replacing a battery can be dangerous, at least for the iPad. Repair shops and experienced DIYers know this, and Apple seems to recognize it, usually giving customers looking for battery changes a new iPad. Soon, with at least one model, Apple and its repair technicians could begin to actually replace an iPad’s battery instead of sending it to the renovation airwaves.
A report on MacRumors claims that Apple is issuing a new policy for the iPad mini 6 (i.e., the iPad mini 2021) that will allow repair centers (where devices are shipped for more in-depth service) to replace only the battery, rather than a Whole Unit Replacement ( WUR) from existing or refurbished stock. MacRumors states that “other iPads could follow in the coming weeks and months,” without specifics.
Replacing the battery on an iPad requires removing the screen, which is a pain with almost all iPads. Apple’s own repair tools, tailor-made for each device, may be easier to use than using hand tools at home. But there is an unavoidable physics issue of having to apply strong suction or prying force to a long, wide, and thin screen. The sixth-generation mini-iPad, the smallest of them, probably represents a device with the highest screen removal success rate.
iPad repairs are so cumbersome that some unlicensed repair shops are bundling the cost of a screen replacement into quotes for battery replacements on larger iPads, like the iPad Pro, whether they want to avoid a tedious process or just want a break. contract.
For customers, getting a replacement iPad can sometimes be a small boon as scratches, dents, or other defects that aren’t visible at a glance are fixed by Apple’s supply chain. That’s unlike the process of having to restore a full backup and re-login to dozens or hundreds of apps simply because you needed a new battery.
Apple does not currently offer repair tools for iPads in the Self Service Repair Store. Apple typically charges $99, plus tax and about $7 shipping, to replace an iPad via shipping to a service center. iPad battery replacement under AppleCare coverage may be covered, but only if the device’s battery health is below 80 percent or if other battery issues can be demonstrated.
