Apple announces customer self-repair services


Apple made a surprise announcement that it will soon provide repair support directly to customers. The new self-repair program would allow customers to perform certain repairs on limited devices.

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. Available first for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 lineups, and soon to be followed by Mac computers featuring M1 chips, Self Service Repair will be available early next year in the US and expand to additional countries throughout 2022. Customers join more than 5,000 Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) and 2,800 Independent Repair Providers who have access to these parts, tools, and manuals.

The service will include parts and repair manuals. Apple said initially parts will be related to what is described as most common repairs. This includes replacing displays, batteries, and cameras. Apple promised support for additional repairs later next year. Apple also said customers will be able to receive a credit when returning broken parts for recycling.

This is a positive development at face value, but we'll have to see how things look when it rolls out. Especially as it rolls out fully throughout next year. Apple is facing pressure to better service customers through the right to repair movement. It will be seen if this is a genuine effort or just a strategy to stave off legislation. A voluntary approach would likely be more favorable for the company than one prescribed by lawmakers and regulators.

To be effective, I feel Apple would need to provide parts at reasonable prices at the component level. Meaning, not forcing customers to buy expensive modules that may make the repair too costly. Also, Apple would need to provide any software and tools at a reasonable cost, in addition to manuals/documentation necessary to perform the repair.

At a minimum, this seems a great step in the right direction. While most customers are likely better serviced by having repairs done by others, there shouldn't be barriers for customers to repair their own devices whenever practical. It's good for the environment and empowers consumers to maintain the products they own.