iPhone users could soon make repairs to broken devices themselves, after Apple revealed a new ‘self-repair’ programme.
Campaigners have long called on the technology giant to allow its users to repair their devices if they feel comfortable and able doing so. However, Apple resisted their calls for many years, claiming it was too dangerous a process and that getting a professional to do the work would result in a better finish.
Now it has bowed to pressure and launched an official spares and repairs service, which allows users to buy the parts they need to fix broken screens, batteries, cameras and more. In total, Apple’s repair shop will stock around 200 tools and components when it launches early next year.
The announcement follows a growth in the so-called ‘right-to-repair’ movement. These campaigners want to make it easy and affordable for people to repair the items they own and expand consumer rights long after purchase. It could also help drive down e-waste as users hold on to their devices for longer instead of throwing them away when just one component breaks.
The movement has been so successful that some US states are already considering bringing in right-to-repair legislation.
Announcing the new service (which will initially be available for iPhone 12 and 13 users), Apple said it was “intended for individual technicians with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices.” However, the company did go on to say that certified technicians using genuine Apple parts would remain the safest and most reliable option “for the vast majority of customers”.
It went on to say that, “by designing products for durability, longevity, and increased repairability, customers enjoy a long-lasting product that holds its value for years.”
A date has not been set on when the service will open to UK customers, but Apple has said that following the US launch in early 2022, it would roll out across the rest of the world over the course of the year.
