Image: Apple
Apple will allow customers access to Apple genuine parts and tools to repair their iPhone at home.
This is a good thing – but if you don’t have any experience ‘tinkering’ with electronics, it’s probably best to leave repairs to the professionals.
Initially, the program will focus on the most commonly serviced modules, such as the iPhone display, battery and camera. The ability for additional repairs will be available later next year.
“Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed,” says Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer.
“In the past three years, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service locations with access to Apple genuine parts, tools and training, and now we’re providing an option for those who wish to complete their own repairs.”
Repair kits will be available first for the iPhone 12 and 13 models.
Later, you’ll also be able to get under the hood of the M1 Macs when Self Service Repair is available early next year in the US before expanding to other countries in 2022.
Apple says Self Service Repair is intended for individual technicians with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices. For the vast majority of customers, visiting a professional repair provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair.
The new store will offer more than 200 individual parts and tools – enabling customers to complete the most common repairs on iPhone 12 and 13.
Apple also says it is important repairers review the Repair Manual before they begin.
Once they do, customers place an order for the Apple genuine parts and tools using the Apple Self Service Repair Online Store.
Following the repair, customers returning their used part for recycling will receive credit towards their purchase.
Clearly Apple wants to take ownership of the repair market by providing the tools and parts to ensure safe and reliable repairs.
But it won’t be for everyone.
As a life-long ‘tinkerer’ with gadgets this provides a great opportunity for kids to become the family tech mechanic.