This reveals a larger problem. Repairability has not been a priority for a long time, while it is precisely there that a significant part of the solution lies for e-waste and resource scarcity. We still see that devices are unnecessarily replaced quickly, while they could last for years with a simple repair or through refurbishment.
At the same time, you see that the growth of the refurbished market is beginning to influence the behavior of large manufacturers. The emergence of cheaper models is a direct response to that. However, repairability is separate from that and is primarily enforced by regulations in practice. That is why it is important that repairability is implemented as a standard for all devices and price ranges, not just in budget models.
Also read: 'Refurbished deserves the same trust as new electronics'
If we truly want to move towards a circular economy, manufacturers must adopt repairability as a standard for all devices, regardless of price range. This starts with design: products must be easy to repair from the ground up. Additionally, governments and manufacturers need to better inform consumers about the possibilities and benefits of repair and refurbished, for example by being transparent about costs, lifespan, and warranty, so that sustainable choices also become the logical choices.
Also read: TCL introduces new TCL CrystalClip open-ear earbuds with Swarovski® Special Edition during MWC 2026
The step being taken now is a start, but a repair score of six out of ten for the MacBook Neo shows that the bar is still set low. If we do not raise that bar, we will remain stuck in a system where valuable resources are lost and electronic waste continues to grow.
Also read: Already from two à three books per year, an e-reader is more environmentally friendly
