Google Pixel 6A Teardown Reveals Surprising Secrets

Google Pixel 6A Teardown Reveals Surprising Secrets

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Issue with the Pixel 6a's Condition
3. Disassembly Process
   1. Removing the SIM tray
   2. Applying heat and removing the screen
   3. Disconnecting the screen cable
   4. Removing the screen components
   5. Peeling off the protective film and removing screws
   6. Accessing the battery and vibrator motor
   7. Disconnecting the battery and removing it
   8. Removing the bottom speaker assembly
   9. Removing the main board
   10. Exploring the main board components
   11. Examining the back cameras and other components
   12. Peeling off shields and exploring chips
   13. Examining the motherboard and wireless charging feature
   14. Removing the back plate and top panel
   15. Examining the top speaker, secondary microphone, and LED flash
   16. Repairability score of the Pixel 6a
4. Reassembling the Phone
5. Conclusion

Article

Issue with the Pixel 6a's Condition

When unboxing the Pixel 6a, it became evident that the unit had some cosmetic issues. Despite being a brand new unit, both the camera lens bezel and the back plate were scratched, and there was Dust or debris inside the box. Although it is uncertain if this is an isolated incident, it is essential to take note of these potential issues.

Disassembly Process

To gain a deeper understanding of the Pixel 6a's internals, let's proceed with the disassembly process step by step.

Removing the SIM tray

The first step is to remove the SIM tray, which is located on the side of the phone. Carefully eject the tray using a SIM tray ejector tool or a PaperClip.

Applying heat and removing the screen

To loosen the adhesive that holds the screen in place, Apply heat to the front of the phone using a heat gun or a hairdryer on a low setting. Be cautious not to overheat the device. Once the adhesive is softened, use a plastic pry tool to gently pry the screen off the phone's frame. Take Care not to damage the screen during this process.

Disconnecting the screen cable

After removing the screen, You will Notice a metal cover over the screen cable connector. Lift the cover to access the connector and disconnect the screen cable from the main board.

Removing the screen components

The plastic housing for the front-facing camera is located at the top of the screen, while a plastic frame surrounds the screen. This frame, together with the adhesive, holds the screen in place. The fingerprint sensor is attached to the screen, making screen replacements likely to include the sensor pre-attached. Remember to peel off the protective film at the bottom near the charger port.

Peeling off the protective film and removing screws

Underneath the protective film, you will find a series of Torx screws (T4) that need to be removed. Each screw varies in size, so it is crucial to remember the location of each screw. Removing these screws will allow you to lift the mid plate, which houses various components.

Accessing the battery and vibrator motor

Once the mid plate is removed, you will notice a large piece of graphite foam over the front. This foam helps transfer heat away from the components. The vibrator motor, responsible for providing haptic feedback, is located on one of the bottom corners of the phone.

Disconnecting the battery and removing it

To access the battery, you need to detach the battery cable connected to the main board. Carefully disconnect the cable, ensuring no damage is done to the connector. To remove the battery, use a plastic pull tab provided or a plastic pry tool to gently lift and pry it off the adhesive.

Removing the bottom speaker assembly

The bottom speaker assembly, which provides audio output, can be lifted and removed from its position. Take note of the mesh filter covering the opening to protect the speaker from debris.

Removing the main board

There is a single screw, typically a T4, securing the main board. Unscrew it, and then you can lift the main board off the device.

Exploring the main board components

Upon closer examination of the main board, you will notice various components and connectors. The charger port is soldered onto the main board, making a replacement challenging. The primary microphone and SIM card reader are also located on the main board.

Examining the back cameras and other components

The main board also houses connectors for the back cameras. These connectors can be disconnected by popping them off. The main camera, equipped with optical image stabilization, is the only camera with this feature. Additional components, such as RAM and the processor, can be seen on the board.

Peeling off shields and exploring chips

Removing the removable shields on the main board reveals thermal gel on various chips. The processor and RAM, responsible for the phone's performance, can be observed in Detail. The phone's storage capacity can also be identified.

Examining the motherboard and wireless charging feature

Turning the main board over, you can observe the motherboard and explore its components further. Copper tape is present on the frame underneath the motherboard. You might notice a cutout on the frame, hinting at a wireless charging feature, but there is no wireless charging coil. Only the flex cable for the NFC antenna is present.

Removing the back plate and top panel

If you wish to remove the back plate, apply heat to it and gently pry it off using a plastic tool. It is crucial to peel off the NFC antenna flex cable or remove it from the frame carefully to avoid tearing it. The back plate is made of plastic and is easily removable once heated.

Examining the top speaker, secondary microphone, and LED flash

The top panel, which contains the camera lens cover, can also be heated and pried off. The top speaker is secured with adhesive and has a red Rubber gasket around the opening. You will notice small white foam balls in specific locations. There is a secondary microphone attached to the flex cable for the LED flash.

Repairability score of the Pixel 6a

Considering the ease of disassembly and the ability to access various components, the Pixel 6a receives a repairability score of 7 out of 10. However, it is essential to exercise caution when handling delicate components during the disassembly process.

Reassembling the Phone

Once you have gained a thorough understanding of the internal components and completed any necessary repairs or explorations, it is time to reassemble the Pixel 6a. Carefully follow the disassembly steps in reverse order, ensuring each component is properly reattached. Finally, reapply the screen, power on the phone, and enjoy its functionality.

Conclusion

The disassembly process of the Pixel 6a allows us to explore the phone's internal components and gain insights into its construction. Although some cosmetic issues were observed in the unit, the repairability score suggests that the phone can be relatively easy to repair if needed. By following the disassembly and reassembly steps, users can confidently navigate the internals of the Pixel 6a and resolve any potential issues or explore further customization options.

Highlights

• Pixel 6a's cosmetic issues: Scratched camera lens bezel and back plate, dust or debris inside the box.
• Step-by-step disassembly process.
• Components explored: SIM tray, screen, battery, vibrator motor, speakers, main board, back cameras, and more.
• Examination of motherboard, wireless charging feature, processor, and RAM.
• Repairability score: 7 out of 10.
• Reassembling the phone and conclusion.

FAQ

Q: Is the cosmetic issue observed in the Pixel 6a a common occurrence? A: It is uncertain if it is an isolated incident or affects multiple units. Users are encouraged to report such issues to the manufacturer.

Q: Can the screen of the Pixel 6a be replaced without the fingerprint sensor? A: No, as the fingerprint sensor is adhered or glued to the screen. Screen replacements typically include the pre-attached sensor.

Q: How easy is it to repair the Pixel 6a? A: The repairability score of 7 out of 10 suggests it is relatively easy to repair. However, caution must be exercised when handling delicate components.

Q: Can the charger port be replaced independently? A: No, the charger port is soldered onto the main board, making a replacement challenging without professional assistance.

Q: Does the Pixel 6a support wireless charging? A: The frame of the phone has a cutout for wireless charging, but the actual feature is absent. Only the NFC antenna is present.

Q: Can the back plate of the Pixel 6a be easily removed? A: Yes, applying heat to the back plate allows for easy removal, but caution should be taken not to tear the NFC antenna flex cable.