Galaxy-S6-removable-back

Samsung's all-new design for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge means its flimsy removable back panel is gone. But according to a Galaxy S6 user manual, it is possible to get inside the handset and replace its battery.

"These instructions are only for your service provider or an authorised repair agent," the manual reads. "Damage or faults caused by the unauthorised removal of the battery are not covered by the warranty."

Like a lot of other smartphones, then, the Galaxy S6 — and presumably the S6 Edge, too — can be repaired if the battery dies, but Samsung doesn't want users to do it themselves. The company provides clear instructions for those brave enough to give it a go, however.

It seems removing the handset's back panel is the tricky bit: Once the SIM card tray is out, you'll need to heat up the adhesive that holds the glass in place before gently pulling it out of the frame.

There's a second panel beneath that held in place by 13 screws — which will likely require a torx screwdriver — that needs to come out next. The battery can then be disconnected from the logic board before being lifted out.

The procedure is similar to that for a handset like the Xperia Z3, as demonstrated in the video below.

While no one will be carrying a second battery to perform this procedure when their battery dies on the train, it's good to know that it is possible if you end up with battery problems.

Smartphone batteries tend to deteriorate over time, so replacing them becomes a necessity at some point if you plan to hang onto them past a two-year contract.