If you’ve had to get your iPhone 4 serviced recently, you might have noticed a little change down by the connector: it very likely has 5-point Torx screws in it. If you aren’t the type inclined to go digging into your gadgets or tweaking hardware for fear of destroying something, it’s probably not a big deal. On the other hand, if you were looking to score some white iPhone 4 parts and getting on with a little DIY action, be careful.
You can get Torx screwdrivers just about anywhere, but you’ll have to be careful. As with other screw types, except maybe for the flathead, you don’t know what wear down the head. Also, on tiny devices such as these I’ve found that it can be pretty easy to strip threads, too. Right now Apple is making sure you think twice about cracking open a new iPhone 4.
There are additional reports that models getting shipped to stores are arriving with the tamper-proof Torx screws – reportedly the type that has pins right down the center. Those will definitely cause some headaches if you try to remove them from the frame or body of the iPhone 4, although it’s unconfirmed if these are the screws included with the new iPhones.
It looks like this may be a new trend for Apple as the new Macbook Air also comes equipped with Torx screws instead of your average Phillips head. I’d say it’s a little anti-geek, especially for those who are more than capable of a little home tinkering. But like I always say, when there’s a will, there’s a way – it’s just that I’m not sure it’s really worth the trouble at this point. If your device does need servicing, there is always the warranty or perhaps even Apple Care. I’ve found the latter to be of great use towards the end of my Macbook Pro’s life.
[Via: 9to5Mac]
