From the beginning, Apple has frowned upon third-party repairs and repair-it-yourself tactics, so much so that they have discouraged their customers from seeking out third-party repair services by fusing most of their parts into the logic board of their devices and using special screws and adhesives to make the repair process extremely difficult and, in some cases, impossible to achieve without consulting an authorized Apple dealer.
Dissatisfied consumers have long since complained about this fact and have demanded Apple that they be allowed to repair these devices themselves or take them to local iphone repair shops. This has been especially true and important for some that have no access to authorized Apple dealers and hate having to send them through the mail just to get their devices repaired, a tedious and timely process that would leave users deviceless for several days.
Wanting to show that they are listening to their consumer base and that they care about their opinions, Apple decided to implement a program, the Self-Service Repair program, that would allow their consumers to do just that. It would ultimately allow you the chance of repairing your iPhone, iPad, iMac, or other Apple product yourself or at a non-authorized repair shop.
This announcement came In November of 2021. Apple had announced plans to introduce this Self-Service Repair, a program that would enable its consumers, mainly those with the knowhow to fix electronic devices, to repair their own Apple products in the convenience of their own home by allowing them access to genuine Apple parts and tools necessary to complete such repairs. It is said that they would also offer repair manuals for those to refer to in order to make sure that they are repairing their products safely and effectively.
This program was meant to be released in early 2022 and would first target the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 devices and would allow for display, battery, and camera repairs. It will later be expanded to M1 Macs. At first, this program would be available to United States residents and then would later be introduced to other countries throughout the year.
Apple COO, Jeff Williams, said in a statement: “Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed. 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.”
So, finally, Apple has decided to give its consumers what they have been demanding for a long time and this program will certainly be beneficial to those living in remote communities with no close access to Apple retailers.
However, Apple has been particularly quiet regarding this program in recent months. In fact, they have given us no new information since November of last year and we’re almost four months into 2022.
So, where is this program, when will it be released, and why has it been delayed?
Unfortunately, the answer to these questions is currently unknown. Apple has not updated its users as to where this program stands or why it has yet to be released and there is no information on when it will finally be executed. There have been rumors, though, that the delay has been caused because of the shortage of certain parts which have affected several different markets including the automotive industry and many electronic industries.
Nevertheless, some Apple users have been quick to notice certain clues pertaining to the release of the Self-Service Repair program. For example, the Apple Watch now has an option to order replacement parts from the Apple Support app. Though, when users click on the order button, they are then forwarded to consult with an Apple employee.
Another clue comes from a leaked memo from a third-party. What this means is still unclear but some users are speculating that Apple will team up with a third-party business to offer this program. Additionally, the memo mentions repair manuals that will be available to those who are wanting to repair their own devices.
While we wait for more updates regarding Apple’s Self-Service Repair program, there are alternatives to getting your Apple product repaired. One such alternative, and one we suggest ourselves, is Fixable.
Fixable offers repairs for iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and even non-Apple devices like Samsung, LG, Google, Asus, and more.
When it comes to iPhones and iPads, their most common repair services include screen repairs, battery repairs, charging port repairs, and glass repairs. They employ certified technicians and offer a 90-day warranty for both parts and labor. Also, aside from the 3-month warranty, they offer a quick turnaround time of just 30 minutes.
The best part? They come to you, saving you both time and money on the commute.
If you’re interested in finding out more about Fixable, who they are, and the services they provide, or you are requiring repairs for your electronic devices, be sure to visit fixablestore.com and contact them today.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s Self-Service Repair program is highly anticipated and is sure to be a hit once it is eventually released. Although it is only projected to be released for iPhone 12’s and iPhone 13’s in the beginning, it will certainly be expanded to M1 Macs and other Apple products at a future date.
Though we have no updates regarding when this program will see the light of day, there are some strong indications that Apple is still working on getting it released this year. Fingers crossed.
Hopefully Apple will release some new updates and a release date regarding their program soon as many people are looking forward to being able to repair their own Apple products at home. Until then, consumers will just have to make do with going to authorized Apple dealers or by contacting Fixable.
