The gadget repair industry is undergoing significant transformation. Recent reports indicate that a large portion of electronic devices that are discarded can actually be fixed. Data from Fixing Factory reveals that over 70% of the electronic waste (e-waste) they studied still has a high repairability rate. This suggests that millions of devices ending up in landfills could be salvaged for a fraction of the cost of buying new ones.
This phenomenon has gained attention amid rising awareness of the right to repair. New regulations from the European Union, effective July 2024, will require electronics manufacturers to provide spare parts at fair prices and streamline the repair process. This policy is impactful as Europe serves as a major market for global tech companies.
Understanding New Regulations and Their Impact on Consumers
The European Union has implemented a Directive aimed at making electronic devices more repair-friendly. This regulation mandates that manufacturers supply tools and spare parts, enabling consumers to undertake repairs independently. However, there are important exceptions: devices designed for wet use, such as wearables and headphones, are not required to comply with this rule.
Nevertheless, this change is significant. Mobile phone manufacturers must now provide easily removable batteries and accessible repair tools. This regulation also encourages companies to design products with sustainability in mind, rather than focusing solely on performance and aesthetics.
Fairphone's Role in Promoting Repairability
One of the pioneers in this movement is Fairphone, a Dutch brand that started with a campaign against conflict minerals before producing its own devices. Miquel Ballester, Head of Product at Fairphone, emphasizes that modular design is key. Fairphone devices are designed so users can replace the screen, camera, and battery without specialized tools—just a standard Phillips screwdriver.
Ballester critiques the trend of pursuing IP68 ratings, which he believes forces manufacturers to use permanent adhesives and factory seals. Fairphone opts for a different approach: creating devices that can be opened and repaired over a seven-year lifespan instead of being submerged in water once with a non-replaceable battery. This philosophy aligns with their sustainability mission from the beginning.
Shocking Statistics on Electronic Waste
Data from The Restart Project, a UK-based charity focused on electronic repair rights, reveals fascinating findings. Only 12.4% of discarded electrical devices truly reach the end of their lifespan. Meanwhile, 36.2% of devices are still functioning well, and 9.5% are economical to repair.
For instance, in 2022 alone, around 7 million wireless headphones were disposed of in the UK, with approximately 2.5 million units potentially able to function normally again. Unfortunately, many consumers are unaware of this repair potential and opt to purchase new products instead.
Practical Tips for DIY Gadget Repairs
Volunteers from Fixing Factory, a repair community in London, offer several practical suggestions. They note that many issues stem from cleanliness—devices that are dirty and dusty often work perfectly after a thorough cleaning. Guides from YouTube and sites like iFixit are invaluable resources for those looking to try their hand at DIY repairs.
However, it’s crucial to note that not all devices are suitable for home repairs. Lithium-ion battery devices pose a fire risk if mishandled. According to data from the National Fire Chiefs Council, over 1,200 battery-related fires occurred in the UK in 2025, often in waste trucks and disposal facilities.
Challenges with Parts Pairing and Software
Fiona Dear, Co-Director of The Restart Project, highlights the issue of “parts pairing” as a major current obstacle. This refers to software restrictions some brands impose on their devices, preventing the use of non-original components and triggering error messages when users attempt to replace certain parts. This practice effectively pushes consumers towards official repair services, which tend to be more expensive.
Fairphone is committed to combating this practice. Every component they produce is designed for free interchangeability. Their latest device, the Fairphone 6, even promises 8 major Android updates—one of the longest commitments from any Android manufacturer.
The Future of Electronic Repair
Rising component prices due to AI demand have made electronic devices increasingly expensive. This situation makes repair an economically relevant option. However, the needed changes extend beyond regulations; they also include a shift in consumer mindset. Basic skills in self-repairing devices will become increasingly valuable in the future.
Initiatives like Fixing Factory and The Restart Project demonstrate a high demand for repair services. With the right regulatory support and a shift in consumer attitudes, the electronic repair industry has substantial growth potential. It's not just about saving money; it's also about reducing the environmental impact of ever-growing electronic waste. As experts suggest, broken devices do not always have to end up in the trash—sometimes they just need a little care and skill to make them functional again.
Source: https://telset.id/how-to/repair-gadget-lebih-mudah-inilah-cara-memperbaiki-elektronik-rusak
