As iFixit typically does, they have torn down the Google Pixel XL, which is Google’s latest smartphone that started shipping to pre-orderers this week. The company rated the Google Pixel XL with a 6 on the repairability scale, but did note that many of the internal pieces are modular, making it easy to replace them. iFixit was able to pop off the back cover of the Pixel XL with their pick, and get into the smartphone pretty easily. In fact, it’s the same way they got into the iPhone 7 which they tore down quite recently as well.
iFixit found that the display separates from the digitizer a little too easy “for our liking”. This means that there could be issues down the road with users using the Pixel XL for an extended period of time. iFixit did confirm that this is a Samsung-made panel, and its model number is AMS546KD09. Inside, they also find the HTC-made battery which is rated at 13.28Wh, which is slightly lower than the Galaxy S7 Edge’s and the Galaxy Note 7’s battery. Everything else inside is pretty modular, as we already mentioned. Making it easier to take out parts of the phone to be replaced if needed.
Google did use Samsung for their flash memory in the Pixel and Pixel XL, which is quite common actually. Most smartphone makers use Samsung’s flash memory for storage in their smartphones and even tablets. They also find a slew of Qualcomm parts including the Snapdragon 821 processor, the audio codec, Dynamic Antenna Matching Tuner, and much more. iFixit also notes that there is almost no branding from HTC even on the inside of this smartphone. The only place you see their branding is on the battery, which is even covered up, after removing the back of the device. Which means HTC is basically like Foxconn for Google. Their logo is nowhere on the phone, and they were never mentioned when talking about the Pixel or Pixel XL.
If you haven’t checked out our review of the Pixel and Pixel XL, it’s definitely worth reading if you’re thinking about picking up the device.