Apple plans to provide customers with the ability to repair their own devices amid growing shortages of electronic components and pressure from legislators and consumers around the world, who are calling on electronic device manufacturers to relax the necessary requirements for support. company technician takes care of the repairs without this cost having a direct impact on the consumer.
The company just a few days ago announced a new program that will make replacement parts for Apple products available for purchase beginning early next year. The program, known as Self Service Repair, will allow users to repair broken devices using repair manuals that Apple will publish on its website and in multiple languages.
I cook it, I eat it
Apple plans to start with some components that tend to require replacement , such as displays, batteries, and camera modules. The company says it will have more than 200 parts and tools available at launch and plans to add more by the end of next year. The repair program will initially be available to iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 users only, but will later be expanded to Mac computers using Apple’s new internal M1 chip.
The company will only disclose prices for its replacement parts when the program formally launches next year, but the company has already anticipated that it will charge individual users the same prices that it currently charges independent repair providers.
You have the right to get it fixed
Apple’s move comes as makers of electronics, as well as manufacturers of cars and heavy machinery, from tractors to hospital equipment, face increasing pressure to ease restrictions on independent device repair shops or reparations a movement known as the “right to have it repaired.”
Companies have been criticized for using tactics that make it difficult for independent repair companies to access major brand devices, such as the use of memory sticks or non-removable batteries, or sealing devices with special glue. Critics argue that these tactics can lead to higher costs for consumers , hurt independent repair shops and be bad for the environment.
Lawmakers in the UK and Europe have also passed or are considering pushing through new laws to force device makers to provide spare parts to their customers. One of the notable proponents of the “right to fix” movement is Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, who said earlier this year that he fully supported the cause.
iFixit, a popular electronics and appliance repair website, has criticized Apple and other companies for not offering supplies to consumers. “We are delighted to see Apple admit what we have always known: everyone is capable enough to fix an iPhone.”
