Samsung’s upcoming wearable, the Samsung Galaxy Ring, is reportedly unrepairable if it sustains damage or if its battery dies. According to recent findings, the design of the smart ring makes it challenging, if not impossible, to repair. The teardown analysis reveals that attempting to disassemble the device could render it completely useless, raising concerns about its longevity and sustainability.
Battery Design Limits Repairability in Galaxy Ring
As reported by iFixit, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is powered by a lithium-ion battery that offers around 400 cycles of use. However, once the battery degrades, the smart ring cannot be repaired. The problem lies in the device’s design, as accessing the battery requires dismantling the ring from the inside. Unfortunately, this process is so intricate that it is not feasible to do so without causing irreversible damage to the device.
Circuit Board and Resin Complicate Repairs
Another issue contributing to the Samsung Galaxy Ring’s irreparability is its internal structure. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the ring reveals that the inner components are surrounded by an epoxy resin coating. The circuit board is connected to the battery via a press connector, a solder-free solution that complicates the repair process further. The design makes it impossible to reach the circuit board without damaging the battery, effectively making the smart ring a single-use device in the event of internal damage or battery failure.
Concerns for Daily Wearability
Given that the Samsung Galaxy Ring is intended to be worn daily, the potential for damage is a significant concern. If the battery dies or the internal circuitry fails, the device could become unusable, leaving consumers with no option for repair. This raises questions about the durability and sustainability of the Samsung Galaxy Ring, particularly as consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of disposable electronics.
