iFixit announces battery-powered soldering iron, coinciding with iPhone 16 launch

The Fixhub, iFixit’s new battery-powered soldering iron, will be available for $80 starting October 15. It features up to eight hours of battery life, quick warm-up, and USB-C charging ports, making it a practical tool for electronics repair enthusiasts.

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iFixit has announced the launch of a new portable soldering iron, the Fixhub. The timing of the launch is notable, coinciding with Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event, which is expected to highlight the company’s advancements in user repair options. iFixit, renowned for its detailed repair guides and critical reviews of tech products, including Apple’s iPhones, is introducing this device to address common repair challenges faced by enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The Fixhub is a 100-watt smart soldering iron designed with user convenience in mind. It heats up in about four minutes and provides up to eight hours of use on a single battery charge. Additionally, the device includes two USB-C ports, allowing users to charge other devices while working. This feature makes it particularly useful for those engaged in electronic repairs or upgrades on the go.

The decision to develop the Fixhub came after iFixit’s founder experienced frustrations with existing soldering tools, leading to a commitment to create a more effective and user-friendly option. With over 1,000 of iFixit’s repair guides requiring a soldering iron, the company recognizes the need for accessible and reliable repair tools for the average smartphone owner, who may not have such equipment readily available.

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The Fixhub is designed to be beginner-friendly, incorporating features such as sleep mode, fall protection, and a temperature indicator light. The launch is seen as a response to increasing right-to-repair legislation and Apple’s evolving stance on repairability. Apple has begun offering more repair options for its devices, though it continues to face criticism over proprietary parts and repair limitations.

The Fixhub will be available for $80 starting October 15, with pre-sales open today in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Europe. iFixit is also offering a $300 package that includes the soldering iron, an extra battery, and additional repair tools. As always, tech enthusiasts and repair aficionados eagerly await Apple’s assessment of the Fixhub’s repairability.