Apple‘s latest low-cost computer is turning heads for a reason that has nothing to do with its price. Repair experts say the device is surprisingly simple to take apart and fix.
The MacBook Neo costs Php39,990, which makes it the least expensive option in Apple’s current lineup.
For years, Apple has used a system that links parts like batteries and screens to each individual computer using software. If someone tried to swap out a broken part themselves, the computer might not work right unless the replacement came from Apple. This practice, known as parts pairing, has upset many customers and led to new laws in states like California and New York.
The MacBook Neo does things differently. According to a tear down from the repair site iFixit, the new laptop does not seem to have these software locks. That means people should be able to replace parts without running into trouble. The test did use official Apple parts, so it is unclear how third-party components will work in the future.
The battery is also easier to deal with. Older models glued their batteries in place, which made replacements messy and hard. The Neo uses 18 screws to hold the battery down instead. While that is still a bit of work, it beats scraping off glue.
Keyboards are simpler to swap out now too. In the past, fixing a broken key often meant replacing the whole top section of the laptop. That was costly and wasteful. The new MacBook Neo lets users remove just the keyboard with screws. Apple even posted a guide showing how to do it. That could mean the company plans to sell replacement keyboards directly to customers down the road.
These changes show Apple listening to complaints about how hard its products are to repair. With new laws pushing for change, the MacBook Neo might be a sign of what is coming next.