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Finally, you can fix your own iPhone.
Apple and its devices have long been a central issue for the right-to-repair movement, the idea that everyone with the capability to repair and maintain their devices on their own should be permitted to do so. The problem, at least as far as Apple devices go, is that they don’t sell their parts retail, only to registered and approved Apple device technicians, whether that be in an Apple store or at that sketchy phone repair place in the shopping plaza. Apple’s been a bit stubborn about this matter for a while, but today, it seems something has finally clicked into place.
Apple announced today that starting early next year, they will begin supporting self-service repair on their devices by selling device components and providing repair instructions. Through official Apple channels, presumably like the Apple store and their online storefront, you’ll be able to buy over 200 different components, as well as detailed maintenance and repair manuals. Apple will start by selling parts for the iPhone 12 and 13, eventually moving up to Mac computers and M1 chips. These will be all the same components and information provided to authorized technicians, so if you really know what you’re doing, you won’t have to take it to a technician anymore.
"Apple today announced Self Service Repair, which will allow customers who are comfortable with completing their own repairs access to Apple genuine parts and tools"https://t.co/p1woirLweD pic.twitter.com/2iHblaz26t
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) November 17, 2021
“Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed,” Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, said in an official statement. “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.”
Besides making repairs more accessible, this process will also help keep Apple parts in Apple devices, discouraging people from using externally-developed, unauthorized parts. Apple will also offer recycling credits to those who return their used parts to an Apple store after completing a repair.
