The recent exploration by iFixit in Shenzhen’s Huaqiangbei district revealed significant discrepancies in counterfeit electronics, specifically the Apple Watch Ultra 3, AirPods Max 2, and AirPods Pro 3. This area is recognized globally for its vast supply of electronic repair components, but it also serves as a marketplace for imitation products that can easily mislead consumers.
During the disassembly, Shahram Mokhtari discovered that the fake Apple Watch Ultra 3 malfunctioned when interacting with its apps, defaulting to Night Mode instead. The device's 260 mAh battery was found to be inadequately secured inside the case and significantly less powerful than the original. The sensors were mostly painted on, rather than made from durable materials like ceramic or sapphire.
Mokhtari also assessed the counterfeit AirPods Max 2, noting inferior construction with a plastic shell and squishy cushions. The buttons lacked proper feedback, and critical features such as active noise canceling were absent. Despite their similarity to authentic models, including ear detection and setup animations, the internal components showed poor quality, with loose cables and imitative weights to mimic the genuine product's heft.