Apple sells replacement parts to let users repair their iPhone themselves

Apple will give its users the opportunity to repair their smartphones and some computers themselves, an unexpected concession from the tech giant, known for its highly closed ecosystem of hardware and software. The online shop called “Self-Service Repair” will buy more than 200 useful parts and tools for the most common problems with the latest iPhone (12 and 13) ranges, such as defective batteries or screens, According to a press release (in English).

The apple brand has long restricted repairs to its technicians in its stores – at the counter called “The Genius Bar” – and some authorized dealers, but wait times and prices are generally high.

This hallmark of Apple and accusations of planned obsolescence draw regular criticism about the durability of its devices. ‘We never thought we’d see this one day’And Reacted on Twitter iFixit (in English), a site that presents itself as a guide to repair all kinds of objects. What Apple offers “Not perfect, but we’re glad they finally acknowledged what we’ve always known: Everyone is smart enough to fix an iPhone.”.

The new service will be launched in the United States in early 2022, before extending to other countries in the year, and will soon include, in addition to smartphones, computers with the M1 chip manufactured by Apple. “Customers access over 5,000 authorized suppliers and 2,800 independent repairers with access to parts, tools, and manuals.”, defines a california group.

The decision comes as Apple is regularly criticized by companies and authorities for keeping a close eye on its physical and intangible ecosystem. For example, compatibility issues with devices from other brands strongly encourage consumers to stay in the apple realm. And on the iPhone, Apple’s operating system closely oversees third-party mobile apps, which must go through the App Store, which is the name of the download platform.