The iPhone 18 Pro features a redesigned internal cooling system and variable aperture camera

The iPhone 18 Pro incorporates a significantly larger vapor chamber and a new cooling plate located behind the display to manage the heat generated by the A20 Pro chip. The device utilizes a variable aperture camera system, which the teardown reveals is manipulated by electromagnetic components that open and close the aperture blades. The internal architecture includes a metal-encased battery that is integrated into the mid-frame, making battery replacement a complex procedure that requires replacing the entire mid-frame assembly. The upper loudspeaker features a ball-cushioned design to enhance sound quality, while the camera module houses all three lenses in a single, unified housing. The device also features a nano-twin copper layer for thermal management, although it is not immediately visible to the naked eye. The teardown highlights the intricate engineering required to fit these advanced components within the phone's compact chassis, emphasizing the difficulty of performing repairs outside of official channels.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

The iPhone 18 Pro incorporates a significantly larger vapor chamber and a new cooling plate located behind the display to manage the heat generated by the A20 Pro chip. The device utilizes a variable aperture camera system, which the teardown reveals is manipulated by electromagnetic components that open and close the aperture blades. The internal architecture includes a metal-encased battery that is integrated into the mid-frame, making battery replacement a complex procedure that requires replacing the entire mid-frame assembly. The upper loudspeaker features a ball-cushioned design to enhance sound quality, while the camera module houses all three lenses in a single, unified housing. The device also features a nano-twin copper layer for thermal management, although it is not immediately visible to the naked eye. The teardown highlights the intricate engineering required to fit these advanced components within the phone's compact chassis, emphasizing the difficulty of performing repairs outside of official channels.

The iPhone 18 Pro features a significantly larger vapor chamber and a cooling plate behind the display. The A20 Pro chip is cooled by a combination of thermal foil and a puffy metallic sticker.

The variable aperture camera system is controlled by electromagnetic components that move the aperture blades. The battery is encased in metal and integrated into the mid-frame, complicating replacement procedures.

The upper loudspeaker uses internal balls to cushion the air and improve sound quality. All three rear cameras are housed in a single module, requiring the entire unit to be replaced if one fails.

Chapter guide

Back panel removalThe process of heating and removing the back glass panel to access the internal components.Display removalThe process of heating and removing the front display assembly to access the internal components.Mid-frame removalThe process of removing the mid-frame to reveal the battery and internal cooling system.Camera module removalThe process of removing the rear and front camera modules for closer inspection.Loudspeaker teardownThe process of opening the upper loudspeaker to reveal the internal cushioning balls.Motherboard removalThe process of removing the motherboard and examining the A20 Pro chip.Variable aperture inspectionA detailed look at the variable aperture mechanism within the camera module.

Worth noting

  • The video is sponsored by Ridge, which is featured throughout the teardown.
  • The teardown is performed by a single individual and may not represent official repair procedures or standards.

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