Apple embraces self-repairability, up to a point!

1 min read

The news that Apple is now making it possible for consumers to fix their own iPhone or Mac with Apple tools should be welcomed by those campaigning for greater repairability when it comes to consumer devices.

Now consumers in the UK and parts of Europe will be able to buy genuine parts and repair kits for certain iPhones and Macs launched from 2020 onwards.

Apple launched this service in the US last year. It offers detailed instruction manuals and parts for a variety of common repairs, such as cracked screens. Apple will also be offering the same tools used by Apple’s in-house technicians for purchase or on a seven-day loan costing.

Apple has also been testing internal changes to its devices to make them easier to repair.

All of this is certainly welcome but repairing an iPhone is still a challenge so for most users turning to a professional is probably the most sensible course of action, nonetheless, providing a cost-effective repair option as well as extending software support is a positive step.

Apple claims to have more than 5,000 authorised repair shops worldwide with access to genuine parts including its own and independents.

However, specialists iFixit have criticised Apple for digitally locking down the use of recycled and unauthorised parts for repair. What does that mean? Well, if consumers do not use a part bought specifically for a repair with the correct corresponding serial number an iPhone may end up rejecting it!

One step forward!