Google Pixel 8's camera repair parts as expensive as iPhone's

Affiliate Statement: We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links. Please review our ethical policy . Google Pixel 8's camera repair parts match iPhone's in expense Malcolm Owen | Jan 02, 2024 Google Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 0 Facebook Twitter Reddit

iFixit, an e-commerce site for repair gadgets, offers certified Google Pixel parts along with tools for DIY repairs, recently expanding its offerings to include Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro parts. Cost implications may be somewhat high for customers who would traditionally opt for either warranty repairs or professional repair services.

Ars Technica quotes iFixit's pricing at $143 for a replacement rear casing for Pixel 8 and $173 for the Pro model. The battery replacement stands at $43 for both models while display replacements cost $160 and $230, respectively. However, the most significant cost lies in the replacement camera equipment, which is notably exorbitant. The Google Pixel 8 Pro Rear Camera module is priced at $199.99, the front one at $42.99. For the Google Pixel 8, the varying camera types, Wide Rear, Ultra Wide Rear, and front models are priced separately at $142.99, $62.99, and $42.99, respectively, amounting to a sum of $205.98 for the total rear camera module, lower than the Pro model.

These components, although genuine and high quality, stand at high prices. Also, they are comparably expensive as Apple's iPhone. Currently, iFixit only provides camera module replacements for the latest iPhone 14. These cost $149.99 for the iPhone 14 Pro Rear Camera Assembly, and an additional $39.99 for the front camera.

As per Apple's self-service repair program, the "Camera & Screw Kit" for iPhone 15 Pro Max costs $219.64, but a $30.40 credit offered for returning the old parts reduces the overall cost to $189.24. In the case of iPhone 14 Pro Max, the rear camera module costs $196.84, but with the returned part credit, the price comes down to $166.44. There is another bundle including extra elements that is priced at $198.83 before credit, and $30.40 after credit.

Apple's pricing essentially includes component costs and minor extras like screws. Though customers are expected to have tools similar to iFixit's manuals, Apple also offers the option of renting specialist equipment for specific tasks.

These costs for camera modules in Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, compared with Apple's, underscore that the camera module is one of the most expensive smartphone components today, regardless of the manufacturer.