Apple Will Finally Let Customers Fix Their Own iPhones

Maybe you don’t need the Genius Bar: Apple is finally letting users fix their own devices.

Earlier this week the tech giant announced the upcoming launch of a new program called Self Service Repair, which allows customers “who are comfortable with completing their own repairs access to Apple genuine parts and tools.” The first devices available under this service include the iPhone 12 and 13 (with a focus on the display, battery and camera), followed by Mac computers featuring M1 chips. Self Service will launch in the U.S. in early 2022, followed by an expansion globally.

“Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, in a press release. “In the past three years, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service locations with access to Apple genuine parts, tools, and training, and now we’re providing an option for those who wish to complete their own repairs.”

This seems very nice — customers will now have access to the same parts, tool and manuals as the 5,000 Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) and 2,800 Independent Repair Providers. That said, this move is probably the result of recent pressure from government officials to allow users the “Right to Repair” without worry of voiding any warranties.

But as TechCrunch notes, users still might void the warranty if they “manage to further damage the product in the process of repairing it.”

Customers who want to fix their own devices will be able to consult an online Repair Manual, then place an order for the Apple genuine parts and tools using the Apple Self Service Repair Online Store. Following the repair, customers can return their used part for recycling and receive credit toward their purchase.

Overall, this is a step in the right direction for tech companies, even if Apple’s new program seems purposely geared toward users who possess a fair amount of technical know-how. “Self Service Repair is intended for individual technicians with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices,” as the company suggests. “For the vast majority of customers, visiting a professional repair provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair.”