Apple is selling spare parts to allow users to repair their iPhones themselves

Apple will offer its users the opportunity to repair their smartphones and some computers, an unexpected offer from a technology company known for its highly enclosed ecosystem of devices and software. The so-called “self-service repair” online store buys more than 200 spare parts and useful tools for common problems of the latest iPhone ranges (12 and 13), 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 the waiting times and prices are generally higher.

This characteristic of Apple and the deliberately obsolete accusations continue to receive criticism about the durability of its devices. “I do not think we will see this”, Twitter responded on iFixit (In English), A website that presents itself as a guide to fixing all kinds of stuff. What Apple offers “Not exactly, but we’re glad they finally acknowledged what we always knew: everyone is smart enough to fix the iPhone.”.

The new service will launch in the US in early 2022, expanding to other countries later this year, and will soon include M1 chip-equipped computers made by Apple, in addition to smartphones. “Customers reach 5,000 authorized suppliers and 2,800 independent repairmen with access to spare parts, tools and manuals.”, Refers to the California group.

This decision was made because Apple is constantly being criticized by companies and officials for trying to control its physical and intangible ecosystem very closely. Compatibility issues with other brands’ devices, for example, strongly encourage consumers to stay in the Apple world. On the iPhone, Apple’s operating system closely monitors third-party mobile applications, forcing them to go through the App Store, the name of the download site.