Apple’s Self Service Repair Program
Apple’s newly announced Self Service Repair program, which is set to go live in early 2022, will finally give individual customers access to genuine Apple OEM parts and manuals for DIY iPhone (and eventually Mac) repairs. Although this program has limitations and many unanswered questions about how it will be implemented, it is an opportunity for Apple to improve customer relationships by making repairs easier. If Apple prices the parts correctly, the program could also be a way for motivated customers to save money on repairs by doing it themselves while keeping independent repair shops competitive.
Access to factory OEM parts for iPhones and Macs was previously limited to Apple-approved locations only such as Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASP), Apple Stores, and Apple Independent Repair Providers (IRP), a program that allows independent shops to gain access to genuine Apple parts, tools, and training guides for common out-of-warranty Mac and iPhone repairs. When it comes to iPhones, Apple’s new self-service program, like the IRP program, is limited to screen, battery, and camera repairs.
Apple as the Main Source For Its Devices’ Parts
Apple intends to become the primary source for individuals seeking parts and manuals, promising “more than 200 individual parts and tools” for iPhone 12 and 13 models early next year. While that number appears to be high given that the self-service program will launch with parts for only two iPhone models, Kevin Purdy, a writer for the online repair guide site iFixit, found it credible. He claims that Apple could sell a variety of adhesives, specialty tools, individual screws, custom presses, electrostatic discharge mats, and other items.
People with older phones are more likely to require repairs, and Apple’s Self Service Repair program will not assist them at this time. According to iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens, replacement batteries aren’t required for most customers until about a year and a half after the phone was purchased, when battery cells begin to deplete. While Wiens is generally pleased with Apple’s announcement and direction, he believes that the self-service program is primarily Apple’s strategy for avoiding potential FTC regulatory action and even shareholder pressure over the right to repair. Apple has also come under fire from lawmakers for its stringent repair policies.
DIY Support for Apple’s Devices
Despite its limitations, Apple’s new program has the potential to empower more DIY repair people while also providing an opportunity to save money. If a customer gets cold feet after receiving the kit, they may be able to take it to a local repair shop that does not have access to genuine Apple parts. That shop could then charge them a small fee and complete the repair for them.
References
https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/19/22787245/apple-iphone-mac-self-service-program-repair-diy