iFixit Launches VoltClip: A USB-Powered Tool to Simplify iPhone 16 Battery Removal

For DIY tech enthusiasts and repair aficionados, iFixit has just made iPhone 16 battery replacement easier, faster, and more eco-friendly. Say goodbye to disposable batteries, as iFixit’s latest tool, the VoltClip, steps in as a USB-powered alternative to Apple's recommended 9V battery solution. Launched for just $10.95, this innovative tool is already turning heads in the repair community and is expected to be a game-changer for those frequently dealing with Apple’s new electrically debondable adhesive.

But is this little gadget truly worth adding to your repair kit? Let’s dive into the details.

The Problem: Apple’s New Adhesive

Apple is known for constantly pushing boundaries in design and technology. With the iPhone 16, the tech giant introduced a new adhesive to secure the battery—an electrically debondable adhesive. While this might sound high-tech (and it is), it complicates battery replacement for users who prefer to repair their devices themselves.

The official recommendation from Apple involves using a 9V battery and a pair of alligator clips to break down the adhesive, a process that can be cumbersome, especially for the inexperienced. Here’s where iFixit’s VoltClip comes in, offering a sleeker, more efficient alternative.

iFixit’s VoltClip: How It Works

The iFixit VoltClip is a small, USB-powered device designed specifically for debonding the iPhone 16’s battery. It eliminates the need for disposable 9V batteries by utilizing a USB-C power source, making the tool not only convenient but also more environmentally friendly. With the VoltClip, all you need is a USB-C cable and a compatible power source, such as a laptop, power bank, or USB wall adapter.

On one end, the VoltClip has alligator clips attached to short wires, which connect to the battery. On the other end, there’s a 12V DC adapter that converts to a USB-C port. This tool outputs either 9V or 12V of power, depending on the power source you connect it to. In iFixit’s testing, they found that 9V of power debonds the adhesive in around 90 seconds, while 12V can speed up the process to just 60 seconds. This makes battery removal more efficient than Apple’s 9V battery solution.

USB-C Powered Efficiency

The key to the VoltClip’s appeal lies in its USB-C compatibility. As USB-C continues to become the standard for many electronic devices, the VoltClip leverages this growing ecosystem. Most modern smartphones, laptops, and even portable power banks support USB-C power delivery, making the VoltClip highly versatile.

However, it’s important to note that the VoltClip requires at least 9V of power output to work effectively. If connected to a lower-powered USB-C source, like a standard 5V output, it won’t deliver enough power to debond the adhesive properly. This detail is crucial for users to keep in mind before attempting repairs.

According to iFixit, while Apple’s official documents mention that up to 30V can be used for even faster removal, the company wanted to keep things simple and affordable for the VoltClip’s first iteration. This simplicity makes the VoltClip an attractive option for budget-conscious DIYers who don’t want to mess around with high-voltage solutions.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just $10.95, the VoltClip is priced quite affordably, especially compared to disposable 9V batteries, which you’d need to replace after every use. If you’re someone who frequently repairs or replaces batteries in Apple devices, the VoltClip is definitely worth the investment.

For occasional users, the question becomes whether the cost justifies the benefits. If you’re only planning to replace the battery once, a 9V battery might seem like the cheaper option. However, the VoltClip offers the added convenience of being reusable and much easier to carry around, especially if you already have USB-C cables on hand.

In addition, iFixit has teased that they’ll eventually bundle the VoltClip with their iPhone 16 battery repair kits. So, if you’re planning on purchasing one of these kits in the future, you might want to wait for this bundle deal.

Beyond iPhone Repairs: Potential Uses for the VoltClip

Interestingly, iFixit suggests that the VoltClip isn’t just limited to iPhone 16 battery removal. Other potential uses include jump-starting an RC car or reviving a dead smart door lock. These are niche use cases, but they do add to the VoltClip’s versatility.

While these examples might not be relevant to everyone, they show that the VoltClip could have broader applications than initially expected. If you’re someone who regularly tinkers with electronics, the VoltClip might prove to be a handy tool in your arsenal.

Environmentally Friendly Repairing

A significant advantage of the VoltClip is its contribution to reducing electronic waste. By eliminating the need for disposable batteries, iFixit continues to push its mission of promoting sustainable repair practices. With environmental concerns becoming more pressing, tools like the VoltClip allow users to make more eco-conscious choices while still being able to repair their devices effectively.

Conclusion: A Smart Buy for DIY Enthusiasts

In an era where repairability is becoming increasingly important, iFixit’s VoltClip is a small but mighty tool that simplifies iPhone 16 battery replacement. For just $10.95, it’s an affordable, USB-powered solution that replaces disposable batteries and speeds up the debonding process. While it’s particularly useful for regular DIYers, even those who plan to replace their battery once can benefit from the ease and convenience the VoltClip provides.

As USB-C continues to dominate the tech world, having tools like the VoltClip that integrate seamlessly into this ecosystem is a step in the right direction. Whether you’re a seasoned repair expert or a beginner, the VoltClip is a smart buy that adds value to your toolkit—and your peace of mind.

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