Apple fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of the iPhone 16 lineup, which became available for pre-order on September 13. While many are excited to get their hands on the latest Pro and Pro Max models, there’s some disappointing news buried within Apple’s recent updates. It turns out that maintaining your shiny new device might cost more than you expected.
A Pricey Battery Replacement
Beyond the usual differences in price and technical specifications between the standard and Pro models, there’s another surprising distinction: replacing the battery in the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will now cost more than for the standard models—something that wasn’t the case with the iPhone 15.
The cost to replace the battery for the iPhone 15 series, including the 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max, was set at €109. However, for the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, Apple has bumped up the price to €135—an increase of €26. Meanwhile, the battery replacement cost for the regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus remains unchanged at €109.
Why the Price Hike?
This price hike likely has something to do with the advanced features of the new Pro models. Not only do these phones come with larger batteries, but they’re also equipped with a new metal casing designed to improve heat dissipation. While this innovation enhances performance, it might also make replacing the battery more complex, potentially requiring more specialized labor.
A Familiar Pattern of Increases
If you’ve been following Apple’s pricing strategy over the years, this latest increase might not come as a huge shock. When the iPhone 14 was released in 2022, battery replacement costs jumped by €44. Other Apple products, like the Apple Watch and MacBook, have also seen similar price adjustments for repairs and maintenance.
The good news? For new buyers, this price hike won’t hit immediately. Apple includes a one-year standard warranty with every new iPhone, covering defective batteries during that period. You also have the option to extend your warranty through AppleCare+, which covers free battery replacements if the battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity.
Better Battery Longevity
On a brighter note, Apple says it has significantly improved the longevity of its latest iPhone batteries. Previous models, like the iPhone 14 and earlier, were designed to retain 80% of their original capacity after 500 full charge cycles under optimal conditions. The iPhone 15 and newer models double that performance, maintaining 80% capacity even after 1,000 full charge cycles, according to Apple’s specifications.
While the battery replacement price increase may be frustrating, the enhanced battery life might mean you won’t need a replacement as soon as you think. Still, for those planning to keep their iPhone 16 Pro for the long haul, it’s something to keep in mind.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.