Proprietary Screws as a Barrier to Repairing Devices
In the consumer electronics industry, a common but controversial practice is the use of screws with exclusive design heads. These designs, such as Apple's Pentalobe or Nintendo's Tri-wing, deviate from industry standards. The immediate result is that the user cannot open their device with a common screwdriver, encountering a deliberate physical barrier. 🔧
Control over Technical Service
The central objective of this tactic is to control the repair market. By making access to the product's interior difficult, the manufacturer forcibly directs the customer to its authorized service channels. This usually makes keeping the device operational more expensive. For the consumer, a repair that should be simple may no longer be viable due to its cost, as many independent workshops cannot invest in specific tools for each new type of screw that appears.
Direct consequences for the user:- Higher cost when repairing, by depending on official technical services.
- Difficulty accessing internal components like batteries or fans.
- Disincentive for local workshops, which lack specialized tools.
A simple screwdriver thus becomes a tool of resistance for those who want their things to last.
Accelerating Device Obsolescence
When a key component fails, the difficulty in opening the device leads many users to prefer replacing the entire device rather than trying to fix it. This behavior drastically reduces the lifespan of electronic products and increases the volume of waste we generate. The so-called right to repair is directly undermined by these design decisions. Some regions are already beginning to legislate to address this problem and promote a more circular economy. ♻️
Environmental and legal impact:- Generation of more electronic waste (e-waste) by replacing instead of repairing.
- Lower product durability, contradicting sustainability principles.
- Legislative advances in the EU and US to ensure access to repairs.
A Fight for Real Ownership
This practice transcends the technical and becomes an issue of consumer ownership and autonomy. By preventing access, brands not only protect their business model but also limit what you can do with a product you bought. The ability to repair, upgrade, or simply clean a device is fundamental to extending its lifecycle. The growing awareness of this problem is driving a global movement that challenges these physical barriers and defends the right to own and maintain our technology. ⚖️