Apple’s new self-service repair program will kick off in the United States, offering tools and parts to sell to people who want to work on damaged iPhone 12 or 13 handsets.
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Apple said on Wednesday it would start allowing people to repair gadgets they buy from the Silicon Valley giant in a concession seen as a victory for “right to repair” advocates.
The iPhone and Mac computer maker has long limited repairs to technicians at “Genius bars” in its stores or authorized service centers, where device owners often face long waits and expensive tabs.
“We never thought we would see the light of day,” read a tweet from @iFixit, which says it offers repair guides for a range of devices.
“There are a few pitfalls, but I was glad to see Apple admit what we’ve always known: Everyone is genius enough to fix an iPhone.”
Apple’s new self-service repair program will kick off in the United States, offering tools and parts to sell to people who want to work on damaged iPhone 12 or 13 handsets.
It will initially focus on the parts most susceptible to damage, such as screens, batteries and cameras.
The program will roll out to other countries over the next year and expand to include select Mac computers, the Silicon Valley-based company said.
“Creating better access to genuine Apple parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is required,” COO Jeff Williams said in a statement.
“Over the past three years, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service points with access to genuine Apple parts, tools and training, and we now have an option for those looking to do their own repairs. “
The move comes as Apple faces criticism and lawsuits for its tight control over its “ecosystem,” from iPhone hardware to licensed apps on handsets.
Laws enshrining the right of people to be able to repair the things they buy have gained traction in the United States and at the federal level.
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