As a computer repair business, more specifically an Authorized Apple Service Provider, we are always happy to see changes in computer design that facilitate cheaper, easier, and faster repairs for our customers. For that reason, we were happy to learn that Apple made some changes within the 2018 model MacBook Air and MacBook Pro computers to achieve just that.

While the 2010-2017 MacBook Air always had modular trackpad and battery components, most of the newer laptop designs after 2012 (12″ MacBook and 13″/15″ MacBook Pro) had integrated batteries and trackpad assemblies which required replacement of the entire “top case housing” (or “bottom plate” in the case of the 12″ MacBook) if one of those components was to fail or otherwise need replacement. Based on Apple’s integration tendencies since that time, we fully expected the new 2018 Retina-based MacBook Air to follow those design principles and worried that the repairability of these machines would continue to dwindle.

Photo: Apple

Photo: Apple

We were pleasantly surprised to learn that not only are the battery AND trackpad in the new MacBook Air modular components that are more easily replaceable, but the trackpad assembly in the 2018 MacBook PRO is also much easier to remove/replace, making several very common repairs much more affordable and practical for owners of these machines. In our opinion this not only benefits the customer in terms of overall repairability and computer longevity, but our technicians can now turn these repairs around faster and at lower cost in cases of accidental damage or expired warranties. Additionally this paves the way for fewer computers and electronic devices ending up in landfills due to cost-prohibitive repairs and accelerated “upgrade” schedules, which fits Apple’s recent push to be a leader among “green” tech companies.

We’re hopeful that Apple continues down the path of increased modularity and repairability in their portable AND desktop devices as it benefits all involved, including Mother Earth!