iFixit, the teardown testing experts, have published their review of the Apple Watch Ultra. The results are mixed: according to iFixit, this is another watch from Apple that is almost impossible to disassemble and repair independently. On the other hand, the editors of the site recognize an initial effort to make it easier to disassemble the watch in the future, so that perhaps in the following models the Apple Watch Ultra will become a watch that users can certainly disassemble for the purpose of replacing various components.
First, iFixit is impressed that it is indeed a tough watch (and to their taste – also more beautiful) than its predecessors, with an impressive titanium case. Standard screws were found on the back side of the watch, apparently a positive sign, but when disassembling the back cover, a gasket is revealed which is part of the watch’s protection against water penetration at diving depths. iFixit believes that any tampering with this gasket will lead to damage that will make the watch much more sensitive to liquid penetration, and certainly not suitable for swimming or diving.
Removing the seal reveals the large battery of the Apple Watch Ultra, however disassembling it and trying to reach the display components will almost certainly lead to destruction, certainly without tools that are unlikely to be found outside a professional laboratory. The final conclusion is that while it appears that the outer case has undergone changes that can allow for relatively easy disassembly, the composition of the internal components is still definitely not intended for handling or replacing components independently.
While disassembling the watch, the iFixit people also took a look at other components that have not yet been revealed, including a huge speaker that will undoubtedly improve the quality of phone calls transmitted through the watch.