The iPhone is now rated as one of the least repairable smartphones on the market, according to an annual report from US PIRG. Motorola's phones lead with a B+, while Apple's iPhones receive a disappointing D–.

France's 2021 law mandated repairability scores, prompting this latest analysis. While laptops fare better overall, Apple’s low score is due to software support issues, reflecting broader sustainability concerns in tech design.

The report aims to push manufacturers towards more sustainable practices, highlighting the importance of accessibility and longevity over constant upgrades. Proctor hopes that encouraging innovation will lead to products that last longer and can be easily fixed by users.

With European laws requiring repairability scores for devices, Apple faces challenges in meeting these standards. The company’s engineers are capable, but the current trend towards planned obsolescence is unsustainable.