13″ MacBook Pro battery is user replaceable
Much like the earlier 17-inch MacBook Pro with its integrated battery, iFixIt (via CultofMac) reports that the battery inside Apple’s new 13 inch MacBook Pro can easily be replaced.
However, as is Apple’s wont, the catch is that you will need a somewhat odd tri-wing screwdriver, which is a back-handed “security” measure.
• “The battery compartment is identical to the one we uncovered in the MacBook Pro 17″ Teardown. We’ll venture a guess that it looks the same in the updated 15″ Pro as well.”
• “Remove two tri-wing screws and the battery is suddenly replaceable. The sticker comes right off, just as in the 17″ Pro—because it’s adhered to just the battery and midwall, not to the optical drive.”
Given that Apple estimates the batteries in its 13, 15 and 17 inch MacBook Pro models are good for about 1,000 recharge cycles, or about five years of averages, before they start losing charge, the great majority of users won’t need to replace these batteries. Moreover, if you need to replace the battery and do so yourself, that action will void the warranty.
Also, Apple offers a $130 MacBook Pro replacement service via mail order and brick n’ mortar Apple Stores.
Filed under: Mac
If the battery is rated up to 5 years, it should at least last 3 years. Who cares if it voids the warrantee after that because as far as I know, Applecare only lasts up to 3 years.
I don’t think I’d call tri-wing “somewhat odd”… Tons of electronic devices are held together with tri-wing screws. They’re easy enough to find on-line. And if you’re at all inclined to replace this battery yourself you’ve probably already got one.
Although… If Apple is willing to replace it for only $130 I’m not sure why you’d be looking to do it yourself. A replacement battery is likely going to cost you ~$100 by itself.
Of course, if Apple’s longest warranty is only 3 years, then it doesn’t much matter if you’re voiding the warranty, does it?
but apple gives you the option to extend your applecare after the three years