Removable back phones may return: Could it be a good thing?
Back in the early days of mobile phones, it was normal to be able to remove the back cover of your phone to swap out the battery, replace a faulty SIM card or microSD, or simply give your phone a thorough clean. But with the advent of sleeker designs, waterproofing, and more advanced features, the majority of phones released in recent years have had fixed backs, meaning the battery you buy is the battery you’re stuck with. However, there are rumors that some phone manufacturers are considering bringing back removable back phones, so let’s explore the pros and cons of such a move.
Pros
Hassle-free battery replacement
With non-removable phone backs, having to replace a battery usually involves visiting an authorized repair center and paying for the privilege. However, with removable backs, all you need to do is buy a new battery, slot it in, and bingo! Your phone is good as new.
Faster charging
Removable back phones can be charged with an external charger, which means you can have an extra battery charging at all times and quickly switch it out when needed. This eliminates the need to stay plugged in for hours while your phone charges, and would be especially handy for heavy phone users or those who are frequently on the go.
Flexibility and customizability
Removable backs can also make it possible for users to customize the look and feel of their phone. Some manufacturers might sell interchangeable back covers in a variety of colors or textures, allowing users to mix and match according to their style preferences.
Reduced electronic waste
One of the biggest issues with non-removable back phones is the increasing amounts of electronic waste that accompany them. Since batteries can’t be swapped out, a phone with a non-removable back will usually require a full device replacement once the battery dies. By allowing users to easily replace the battery themselves, removable back phones could help reduce e-waste.
Cons
Losing waterproofing
The biggest downside to removable backs is the potential loss of the phone’s waterproofing capabilities. Most waterproof phones feature glued or sealed backs to protect internal components from water damage, and making the back cover removable could compromise this seal and make the phone vulnerable to water damage.
Reduced durability
Removable back phones are also prone to becoming more fragile. The removable part means that it’s less structurally secure than a phone with a fixed back and is therefore more likely to be damaged if dropped or bumped. This means that the phone will have a shorter lifespan than a phone with a fixed back.
Bulky design
Due to the extra space needed to accommodate the battery and the mechanism for removing the back, most removable back phones tend to be bulkier than non-removable ones. This could be a deal-breaker for those who prioritize slimness and sleekness in their devices.
Conclusion
While the pros and cons of removable back phones are debatable, they definitely have their advantages and disadvantages. With phones becoming more fragile and expensive, removable backs could potentially make life easier and cheaper for some users. However, with the advent of waterproofing and sleek designs, making removable backs a staple of modern phones could prove challenging. Only time will tell if removable back phones will make a comeback.
FAQ
1. What are the advantages of removable back phones?
Removable back phones can make battery replacement hassle-free, allow for faster charging, provide flexibility and customizability, and lead to reduced electronic waste.
2. What are the disadvantages of removable back phones?
Disadvantages include the potential loss of waterproofing, reduced durability, and a bulkier design.
3. Which phones have removable backs?
Currently, very few phones have removable backs. However, some older models from Samsung, LG, and Motorola have featured them, and there are rumors that some new models may bring them back.
4. Can you make a waterproof phone with a removable back?
Possible, but difficult. A removable back may compromise the phone’s waterproofing abilities, so creating a waterproof, removable back would require some innovative engineering.
5. Are non-removable back phones better than removable ones?
It ultimately depends on personal preference and priorities. Removable back phones have their advantages and disadvantages, and non-removable backs offer some advantages as well, such as sleeker designs and enhanced waterproofing capabilities.