Apple's self-repair service finally launches after months of silence
- Reference: 1651075208
- News link: https://www.theregister.co.uk/2022/04/27/apple_self_repair_service_launches/
- Source link:
Apple initially made the world aware of [1]its intention to launch a self-service repair program in November 2021, surprising many an Apple watcher used to the company's checkered history with the right-to-repair movement.
Cupertino was mum on the progress of the service before being beaten to the punch earlier this month when Google [2]confirmed a partnership with iFixit to sell parts for Pixel devices online.
[3]
When Apple first set out the Self Service Repair it said there would be more than 200 parts and tools available for iPhone 12 and 13 models, and the company [4]indicated today that's still the case. In particular, the [5]Self Service Repair Store sells parts for all iPhone 12 and 13 series models, as well as the third-generation iPhone SE. Parts include battery, bottom speaker, camera, display, SIM tray and Taptic Engine repairs. Apple said components for Macs with Apple silicon would be added later.
[6]
The parts sold by the store are the same as those available to Apple's authorized repair network, and Apple said it will sell the parts to consumers for the same price it charges repair affiliates. The tools on the site are also the same ones Apple makes for its servicers, and those can be bought individually or rented for one week for $49.
[7]Microsoft exposes glue-free guts of the Surface Laptop Studio
[8]Google to sell replacement Pixel phone parts via iFixit
[9]European Right to Repair resolution headed for vote
[10]Right-to-repair laws proposed in the US aim to make ownership great again
Parts can be purchased as kits for certain replacements or individually as well. The main components for the repairs are priced with the expectation that customers return the broken components to Apple for a credit.
The launch of Apple's Self Service Repair program comes at a time when [11]right to repair continues to be a hot topic. The Biden administration issued an [12]executive order in mid-2021 specifically targeting John Deere for unfair practices, and later [13]praised Microsoft and Apple for their policy changes to make DIY repairs easier.
In [14]a paper Apple released with its Self Service Repair launch, the company said it's also taking steps to make its devices last longer and be more repairable by building new devices in a modular fashion. Hardware longevity and short upgrade cycles appear to be [15]a waning trend , with repairability increasingly top of mind for OEMs with [16]environmental and sustainability goals . ®
Get our [17]Tech Resources
[1] https://www.theregister.com/2021/11/17/apple_diy_repair/
[2] https://www.theregister.com/2022/04/08/google_pixel_repair/
[3] https://pubads.g.doubleclick.net/gampad/jump?co=1&iu=/6978/reg_onprem/personaltech&sz=300x50%7C300x100%7C300x250%7C300x251%7C300x252%7C300x600%7C300x601&tile=2&c=2Ymm9C36hpSBfxRd375alKQAAAJc&t=ct%3Dns%26unitnum%3D2%26raptor%3Dcondor%26pos%3Dtop%26test%3D0
[4] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/04/apples-self-service-repair-now-available/
[5] https://www.selfservicerepair.com/home
[6] https://pubads.g.doubleclick.net/gampad/jump?co=1&iu=/6978/reg_onprem/personaltech&sz=300x50%7C300x100%7C300x250%7C300x251%7C300x252%7C300x600%7C300x601&tile=4&c=44Ymm9C36hpSBfxRd375alKQAAAJc&t=ct%3Dns%26unitnum%3D4%26raptor%3Dfalcon%26pos%3Dmid%26test%3D0
[7] https://www.theregister.com/2022/04/25/surface_laptop_studio_repair/
[8] https://www.theregister.com/2022/04/08/google_pixel_repair/
[9] https://www.theregister.com/2022/04/07/ec_right_to_repair/
[10] https://www.theregister.com/2022/02/02/right_to_repair_bills/
[11] https://www.theregister.com/Tag/Right%20to%20Repair/
[12] https://www.theregister.com/2021/07/07/biden_right_to_repair_executive_order/
[13] https://www.theregister.com/2022/01/26/biden_right_to_repair/
[14] https://support.apple.com/content/dam/edam/applecare/images/en_US/otherassets/programs/Expanding_Access_to_Service_and_Repairs.pdf
[15] https://www.theregister.com/2021/01/25/smartphones_are_becoming_like_white/
[16] https://www.theregister.com/2021/10/27/product_release_cycles/
[17] https://whitepapers.theregister.com/
The problem I’ve had in the past with their party replacement parts is quality (or lack of). Screens that work but are not as clear / sharp as original. Batteries that work but lack longevity or worse expand. In fact as my phone is usually in my pocket, battery quality is extremely important. Those things are not nice when they are defective…
When I saw "self repair", I immediately imagined a Terminator-style device remoulding itself from liquidy metal after being shotgunned. Wouldn't put it past 'em... although if it really "absolutely will not stop until you are dead", that might dent their sales model a bit.
Not 100% "self" repair
I just took a quick look here https://www.selfservicerepair.com/order at both the display and battery repairs. Both include "important information" that reads:
"This part requires the System Configuration software tool. After performing the repair, contact us by chat or phone to initiate System Configuration."
System Configuration requires a strong Wi-Fi network capable of 1.0 Mbps download and upload speeds, with less than 400 ms latency and less than 2% packet loss. Estimated data usage to run System Configuration is 6–22 MB. The device must be running the latest version of iOS and not a beta version.
A System Configuration step may be required at the end of your repair. System Configuration is a postrepair software tool that completes the repair for genuine Apple parts. Running System Configuration has a number of purposes that vary based on the part replaced.
What System Configuration does
1) Transfers factory calibration values
2) Links Secure Element and biometric authentication parts
3) Ensures repair integrity
4) Assigns wireless region
5) Updates firmware
Why it’s important
1) Certain parts like displays, cameras, and ambient light sensors have calibration values that are customized to each individual part during manufacturing. Transferring these values ensures maximum performance and quality after a repair.
2) After repair of a logic board or a biometric authentication part (Touch ID or Face ID), linking the biometric sensors to the Secure Enclave on the logic board is required to ensure device security.
3) After a hardware repair, software checks are performed to ensure repair integrity. Repair integrity means that a genuine Apple part has been correctly installed.
4) To comply with regional communications regulations, a wireless region must be assigned to your logic board. Updates firmware
5) Keeping firmware up to date ensures that the device has all the latest security and performance features.
So no installing an iphone 12 or iphone 13 battery in your iphone 11.
I particularly like:
• The heated display removal fixture softens adhesive to allow separation of the display from the enclosure. The fixture is used with a heated display pocket designed for the device’s specific dimensions.
• The display press applies the appropriate amount of pressure to secure new adhesive during display installation. The display press is used with a repair tray and display adhesive press plate designed for the device’s specific dimensions.
• The battery press applies the appropriate amount of pressure to secure new adhesive during battery installation. The battery press is used with a repair tray designed for the device’s specific dimensions.
• Never reinstall a screw after it has been removed. Install only new screws. iPhone screw grooves are covered in adhesive that can’t be reused.
• Use only the torque driver indicated to install new screws during reassembly. Both overtightened screws and loose screws can damage parts.
I especially like:
How to handle a battery thermal event
A battery thermal event is a rapid chemical chain reaction that occurs inside a battery cell. The energy stored in the battery is released suddenly, which can cause outgassing and fire. A battery thermal event can be triggered by physical damage to the battery, improper replacement or repair, or temperatures outside the battery’s operating range.
Re: Not 100% "self" repair
Why is the system configuration thing a problem? You call Apple and they help you through that step. If they said "you need to pay $1000 for the software" or "you need to be licensed repair shop with $1 million in annual business to be eligible to get this software" I could see your objection.
Sounds like this is a free service that may require a few minutes extra, to provide the exact same repair you could formerly get only at an Apple Store.
And an iPhone 11 battery WILL NOT FIT in an iPhone 12 or 13, the system configuration step has nothing to do with that.
Stop Buying Apple Product
When their multi-billions in profits disappear you'll be amazed how well Cupertino execs will listen to you then.
Just look how Intel is "engaging" with their customers today. Loss of income turns cooperate suits into human beings pretty damned quickly.
Will the same rules stay in place for the UK?
- Repair shops have to have audited premises, be part of a formal Apple scheme and not be a repairer for other brands or stock other brands' parts.
- Apple parts only available to order based on a customer repair request.
And yada yada.
Last fix I had was a no-name battery for my iPhone 7, fitted for £40 all-in, done in 20 mins at some blokes home workshop while I took a walk around the block. Would definitely have paid a bit extra for an Apple OEM battery, but under current Apple restrictive practice that wasn't going to happen.