"makes you wonder if repairability is even a consideration anymore."
Seriously, it's like manufacturers think we're playing Operation every time we crack something open. I've also found plastic spudgers handy—cheap, flexible, and less likely to snap tabs. Still, sometimes gadgets seem intentionally booby-trapped... conspiracy, anyone?
I remember opening up my old tablet to replace a battery—felt like defusing a bomb. Tiny screws everywhere, adhesive strips that tore apart, and ribbon cables thinner than paper. Took me hours, and even then, the screen never sat quite flush again. Makes me wonder if manufacturers are intentionally nudging us toward replacements instead of repairs... or is it just a side effect of chasing slimmer designs?
"Makes me wonder if manufacturers are intentionally nudging us toward replacements instead of repairs..."
Honestly, it's probably a bit of both. Slimmer designs mean less room for screws and clips, so they rely on adhesives and fragile connectors. But yeah, it conveniently nudges us toward buying new instead of fixing...
Yeah, I've definitely noticed this too. Last weekend, I tried fixing my earbuds—just a loose connection, figured it'd be easy enough. But nope, everything was glued tight and tiny wires snapped as soon as I opened them up. Felt like they weren't meant to be opened at all. Makes me wonder if it's really about sleek design or just planned obsolescence... bit frustrating either way.
Yeah, totally get what you're saying. I cracked open my coffee maker last month thinking it'd be a quick fix—just a clogged tube or something—but nope, everything inside was sealed up tight with weird screws. Makes you wonder if they're purposely making stuff disposable these days...