Galaxy Ring teardown shows a darker side of Samsung's finger wearable
iFixit's teardown of the Samsung Galaxy Ring paints a concerning picture of a device that's designed for disposability rather than longevity, as it is impossible to perform any repairs without it breaking to the point where it's no longer usable.
Samsung has designed the Galaxy Ring to be extremely durable against the environment, with IP68 water and dust resistance rating, the ability to withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 100 meters, and Titanium Grade 5 frame to protect it against scratches and blunt damage.
Also read: Samsung Galaxy Ring review
As the folks at iFixit emphasize, the issue is not with the ring's durability, but with its lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries, while ubiquitous in modern electronics, have a limited number of charging cycles before they begin to degrade. Once a battery reaches its end-of-life, it becomes impractical or impossible to replace.
Samsung has designed the Galaxy Ring to be extremely durable against the environment, with IP68 water and dust resistance rating, the ability to withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 100 meters, and Titanium Grade 5 frame to protect it against scratches and blunt damage.
The main issue
As the folks at iFixit emphasize, the issue is not with the ring's durability, but with its lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries, while ubiquitous in modern electronics, have a limited number of charging cycles before they begin to degrade. Once a battery reaches its end-of-life, it becomes impractical or impossible to replace.
In the case of the Galaxy Ring, the battery is sealed within the device, making it virtually impossible to access without destroying the entire ring.
What's more, the use of a press connector to connect the battery to the circuit board, while convenient for manufacturers, makes it nearly impossible for consumers to repair or replace the battery. This decision highlights a growing persistent in smaller consumer electronics: devices that are designed to be replaced rather than repaired.
The disposability of devices like the Galaxy Ring has significant environmental implications. As these devices reach the end of their lifespans, they contribute to the growing problem of electronic waste. The materials used in their construction, especially the lithium-ion battery, can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly, which is unsurprisingly difficult when the device is as tiny as ring.
While the Galaxy Ring may offer a unique and stylish wearable experience, its disposable nature raises serious concerns about its long-term viability and environmental impact. As consumers become increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it is essential that manufacturers prioritize repairability and minimize the environmental footprint of their products.
What's more, the use of a press connector to connect the battery to the circuit board, while convenient for manufacturers, makes it nearly impossible for consumers to repair or replace the battery. This decision highlights a growing persistent in smaller consumer electronics: devices that are designed to be replaced rather than repaired.
The Galaxy Ring is a prime example of toxic technotrash
iFixit's analysis of the Galaxy Ring serves as a stark reminder of the need for more sustainable and repairable electronic devices. Consumers should be aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions and seek out products that are designed to be repaired and reused. Additionally, manufacturers should be encouraged to adopt more sustainable practices and prioritize repairability in their product designs.
While the Galaxy Ring may offer a unique and stylish wearable experience, its disposable nature raises serious concerns about its long-term viability and environmental impact. As consumers become increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it is essential that manufacturers prioritize repairability and minimize the environmental footprint of their products.
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