Xiaomi has made a name for itself as a manufacturer of high-quality smartphones at reasonable prices. However, its latest flagship, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, has taken a turn towards the more expensive side when it comes to repairs. According to the official repair charges released by the company, replacing certain parts of the device could cost a pretty penny.
One of the most expensive repairs on the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is the replacement of the rear camera hump. This camera hump is a standout feature of the device, featuring a Leica-branded "professional" camera system. However, if it gets damaged and needs to be replaced, it could set you back up to 24% of the original retail price of the device.
Replacing the rear panel of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra could also be costly. The rear panel has an unusual shape in keeping with its 'pro Leica mobile camera' aesthetic, and it seems resistant to removal with a suction-cup tool as usual. The frame that curves up around it to an exaggerated degree is the likely culprit. Fortunately, it can still be pried up via clips with plastic tools, but if you lose the faux-leather panel, getting another from Xiaomi might cost you up to 180 yuan (~US$26).
The cost of replacing the display is also quite high. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra features a QHD AMOLED display, which could cost up to 1,360 yuan (~US$197) to replace. Similarly, a new set of its headlining quad 50MP cameras would be 1,450 yuan (~US$210). However, even these super-premium shooters are eclipsed in terms of replacement costs for the 13 Ultra's motherboard, which could set you back up to 2,560 yuan (~US$372) for the 1TB version.
In addition to the cost of replacement parts, Xiaomi also adds a "labor charge" of up to 40 yuan (~US$6) on top of each of those servicing options. However, this charge only applies if the device is out of warranty.
The high cost of repairs for the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is not unique to this device. Many flagship smartphones, particularly those from high-end manufacturers, can be expensive to repair if damaged. However, it is important for users to be aware of these potential costs when purchasing a new device. While it is always advisable to invest in a protective case and screen protector to prevent damage, accidents can still happen.
One possible solution to these high repair costs is to invest in a device protection plan. Many smartphone manufacturers offer these plans, which can cover the cost of repairs or replacements for a set period. These plans can be a good investment for users who are particularly accident-prone or who are worried about the cost of repairs for a high-end device like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is a high-end flagship smartphone that comes with a high price tag, both for the device itself and for potential repairs. While the device is packed with premium features, users should be aware of the cost of replacing certain parts if they become damaged. Investing in a device protection plan or taking extra care with the device could help prevent the need for costly repairs in the future.
