O'Grady's PowerPage

Tag: instructions

  • iFixit posts AirPods Max 2 teardown, cites H2 chips, similar repairability issues to first-gen model

    iFixit posts AirPods Max 2 teardown, cites H2 chips, similar repairability issues to first-gen model

    Once again, the super cool cats at iFixit have posted a full teardown of Apple’s newest device, this time issuing a report as to the newly-released AirPods Max 2, which are “basically the same” as the original AirPods Max headphones that came out in 2020.

    A comparison of the internal components of the ‌AirPods Max 2‌ and the USB-C AirPods Max indicate the headphones are identical, and opening them up requires the same steps. The only difference is the updated H2 chips inside each earcup.

    iFixit stated that Apple hasn’t addressed the common failure points found with the original AirPods Max, such as the condensation that can build up in the earcups in humid environments. Apple also has yet to make parts or repair manuals available. The company has also sugged that if Apple made instructions and components available through its self-service repair program and made the battery and USB-C port more accessible, the AirPods Max would be repairable and could have a much longer lifespan.

    Once again, the headphones have been given a repairability score of 6/10, which is identical to the first generation of the headphones.

    Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.

    Via MacRumors, and iFixit (YouTube)

  • iFixit announces AI-powered FixBot, looks to make finding the right directions and parts easier

    iFixit announces AI-powered FixBot, looks to make finding the right directions and parts easier

    If you’re fond of iFixit’s wares and services, you might like this.

    The cool cats at iFixit have announced the launch of FixBot, the company’s AI-powered “repair helper” that can be used to help fix broken devices or appliances. With FixBot, users can describe a problem by voice or text, and FixBot will respond like a skilled technician. Users can then ask follow-up questions and narrow the issue down to possible causes, with FixBot offering a step-by-step process toward a likely fix.

    The FixBot app leverages iFixit’s extensive knowledge base, which comprises over 125,000 repair guides, service manuals, community Q&A, teardown documentation, schematics, and part-compatibility data. The app can also use computer vision and identify a device via a photo or model plate or part, and then retrieve the correct repair instructions or part numbers as needed.

    iFixit has offered the following limitations as to what it can and can’t do:

    • FixBot’s knowledge is limited to what’s in iFixit’s database — not every obscure device or old appliance may be covered. If a model’s not documented, FixBot will try to find similar devices or use manufacturer docs, but might not match the precision of a fully verified guide.
    • As with any AI, mistakes are possible. iFixit warns that FixBot might not always get it right — though it’s built to rely strictly on documented facts, not guesses.
    • For now, FixBot is launching as a free service for everyone, but some capabilities (like voice control and document uploads) may eventually move behind a paid tier with usage limits.

    FixBot can be found at https://www.ifixit.com/fixbot and please let us know what you make of it if you have a chance to test it out.

    Via iFixit

  • Apple posts installation instructions for 2019 Mac Pro upgrades

    With the launch of the 2019 Mac Pro, Apple on Tuesday revealed a dedicated support webpage complete with directions as to how to upgrade the RAM, PCIe cards, and other components of the new Mac Pro.

    Previously reserved for the cylindrical 2013 Mac Pro, Apple’s support page was redesigned today with resources specific to the 2019 version that went up for sale this week.

    The primary page of the web site features links for macOS support, backing up a Mac, and migrating data from one Mac to another. A second section covers installation of parts both inside and outside the modular Mac. Support videos include guides for upgrading RAM as well as installing up to two Mac Pro Expansion (MPX) modules, as seen below:

    The site also explains how to replace the I/O card and power supply, but warns users to contact a service provider to replace SSD modules and install chassis wheels.

    Other guides include tutorials as to how to connect multiple displays, an explanation of the T2 Security chip, information about RAM types, and an overview of supported PCIe cards.

    Stay tuned for additional details and if you’ve gotten your paws on the new Mac Pro, please let us know about your experience with the new desktop in the comments.

    Via AppleInsider and support.apple.com

  • Leaked “iPad mini” display case instructions hint at smaller iPad for holiday season

    If it’s not the suppliers that offer interesting hints as to upcoming products, it’s the retailers.

    Per AppleInsider, one retailer is preparing in advance for the rumored device by sending out in-store displays to sell accessories to customers.

    A leaked image shows instructions for standalone displays designed to sell iPad mini accessories. The instruction manual comes from a large box that apparently includes parts from which the future displays will be assembled.

    The tipster indicated that the pages labeled “Amazon/Apple Tablet Display Parts List” came from a box with a note attached, telling employees not to look inside. They said the papers fell out of the box, revealing the contents of the recently delivered package.

    Exactly what store the display parts were shipped to was not provided, but the design shown in the illustration looks similar to in-store displays seen at major retailers such as Best Buy or Target.

    The shipment comes after a list of dozens of supposed “iPad mini” cases were revealed in a spreadsheet on Wednesday. That list of products suggested that third-party accessory makers Belkin, Kensington and Trust all have cases for Apple’s smaller iPad ready to go.

    The fact that the name “iPad Mini” is included on the design of the accessory display should not be taken as a confirmation that it will be the final name of the rumored product. Because the name of the iPhone 5 was not known as case-makers built accessories based on leaked schematics, many cases available for sale at launch came in boxes that simply advertised they were for the “New iPhone.”

    Case makers have bet — and lost — on rumored Apple product designs before. In 2011, some third-party accessory makers banked on a completely redesigned look for Apple’s next iPhone, but that October the iPhone 4S debuted with a design nearly identical to its predecessor, the iPhone 4.

    Similarly, one report this week claimed that a major accessory maker had halted production of cases designed for the so-called “iPad mini”. Manufacturing of those cases was reportedly stopped because of an apparent “design change” that caught the manufacturer-off guard.

    Apple is expected to hold an event later this month to officially unveil a smaller iPad with a 7.85-inch display. The company is said to have ordered more than 10 million units for sale this holiday shopping season.

    Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.