Since the iPhone 16, Apple has introduced a new Electronic Adhesive as the battery attachment method on selected models. But what exactly is Electronic Adhesive? 

How does this battery adhesive work, and what tools do you need to safely remove the battery? Find out in this blog!

What Is Electronic Adhesive?

Electronic Adhesive is a special battery adhesive introduced by Apple with selected iPhone 16 models. Instead of securing the battery with traditional adhesive strips, this new battery adhesive uses a controlled electrical current to release the adhesive bond.

This allows the battery to be removed more easily with less force, reducing the risk of damage during the repair.

Battery Attachment by iPhone 16 Model

Not every iPhone 16 model uses Electronic Adhesive. Below is an overview of the battery attachment method used for each model.

• iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16e: Electrically releasable battery adhesive.
• iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max: Traditional stretch-release adhesive strips.

For other iPhone models, always refer to Apple's official repair manual.

How Does Electronic Adhesive Work?

During a battery replacement, the iPhone is first opened and the battery is disconnected from the logic board. This requires precision repair tools to prevent damage to the device. For example, you may need an opening tool, a suction cup, and other suitable tools to safely remove the rear glass.

Next, a controlled electrical current is applied to the battery adhesive. This can be done using a Battery Adhesive Release Tool, such as the Quanli IP66 Battery Adhesive Removal. The electrical current releases the adhesive, allowing the battery to be removed from the frame with much less force.

Although this technology makes battery removal significantly easier, careful handling remains essential. Using a professional Battery Adhesive Release Tool allows you to work in a controlled manner while reducing the risk of damaging the battery or the frame.

Advantages of Electronic Adhesive

• Less force required to remove the battery.
• Reduced risk of damaging the battery.
• Reduced risk of damaging the frame.
• Less adhesive residue after battery removal.
• Faster battery replacements when used correctly.
• Supports more sustainable repairs.

Disadvantages of Electronic Adhesive

• Any remaining adhesive may still need to be removed manually.
• Requires a suitable Battery Adhesive Release Tool or another compatible power source to activate the battery adhesive.

FAQ

Which iPhones Use Electronic Adhesive?

Electronic Adhesive is used in the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16e, and iPhone 17. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max still use traditional stretch-release adhesive strips. For other iPhone models, always refer to Apple's official repair manual.

Do I Need Special Tools to Remove a Battery with Electronic Adhesive?

To remove a battery with Electronic Adhesive, you need suitable repair tools. A professional tool such as the Quanli IP66 Battery Adhesive Removal can be useful but is not essential. When a Battery Adhesive Release Tool is used, it applies a controlled electrical current to the battery adhesive, causing it to release and allowing the battery to be removed more easily.

Does Electronic Adhesive Leave Adhesive Residue?

Electronic Adhesive generally leaves less adhesive residue than traditional stretch-release adhesive strips. However, devices that have suffered impact damage, liquid damage, or have undergone a previous repair may still have small amounts of adhesive residue remaining. Any remaining residue can be removed manually before installing the new battery.

Advantages of Electronic Adhesive

Elektronische adhesive maakt batterijvervangingen sneller en veiliger doordat de lijm met een gecontroleerde elektrische spanning loslaat. Met het juiste gereedschap verwijder je de batterij gecontroleerd en verklein je de kans op beschadiging van het toestel.

Safety Tips

• Discharge the battery before starting the repair.
• Power off the iPhone completely.
• Wear eye protection and use appropriate ESD-safe repair tools.
• Do not use metal tools to pry against the battery.
• Stop immediately if the battery is swollen, dented, leaking, hot, or otherwise damaged.
• Repeat the electrical release procedure if the battery still offers resistance.
• Stop the repair if the battery still cannot be removed without excessive force.

Do you have questions about the correct repair procedure or would you like advice on the right tools for your repairs? Feel free to contact our Support team. We're happy to help.

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