IPhone planned obsolescence incidencies

Apple's implementation of planned obsolescence is primarily driven by technological obsolescence, encompassing hardware, firmware, and software limitations. The company's hardware design choices, such as proprietary screws, glued components, and complex internal layouts, make repairs difficult for consumers and third-party repair shops. Firmware restrictions further limit repairability by disabling key functionalities when non-Apple components are used, as seen in battery and camera replacements, where users receive error messages and lose features like battery health monitoring and Face ID.

Software updates also contribute to planned obsolescence by leading to performance degradation. Research has confirmed that Apple's software updates negatively impact battery performance, often slowing down older devices and making them less functional over time. Apple has been criticized for discontinuing software support for older iPhone models, which forces consumers to upgrade to newer devices to maintain essential functions such as web browsing and email. Furthermore, Apple’s decision to change charging cable types, such as the shift from the Lightning port to USB-C, has rendered older accessories obsolete, adding another layer of forced obsolescence.

Despite growing regulatory pressure, Apple continues to control its repair ecosystem by restricting access to spare parts and discouraging third-party repairs. On the French Repairability Index (Indice de réparabilité), the majority of iPhone models obtain a score lower than five out of ten.

In December 2022, French prosecutors opened an investigation into Apple over its part-pairing practice, which restricts third-party repairs. HOP, part of the Right to Repair Campaign, had previously filed a complaint, leading to Apple paying €25 million to the French treasury in 2020. HOP argues that this practice fosters planned obsolescence and harms sustainability efforts, advocating for a European ban on part-pairing. The investigation continues as part of broader efforts to protect consumer rights and encourage repairability.

Legal actions against independent repair shops further solidify its control, making it difficult for users to extend the lifespan of their devices without relying on Apple’s costly repair services.