Apple announces expansion of support for iPhone repairs using second-hand parts, advancing the right to repair



On April 11, 2024, Apple announced that it will enhance its existing repair process for consumers and third-party repairers to allow them to use used parts to repair iPhones.

Apple to expand repair options with support for used genuine parts - Apple

https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/04/apple-to-expand-repair-options-with-support-for-used-genuine-parts/



Apple will open the iPhone to repair with used parts - The Verge

https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/11/24127278/apple-iphone-repair-used-parts

Apple opens access to used iPhone components for repair | TechCrunch
https://techcrunch.com/2024/04/11/apple-opens-access-to-used-iphone-components-for-repair/

Previously, Apple required 'parts pairing,' which requires approval of the manufacturer's software, to repair a device, and placed strict restrictions on repairs using second-hand or third-party parts. Apple said that part pairing is 'important to maintaining the privacy, security, and safety of your iPhone.'

However, the situation is set to change dramatically in March 2024 when Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signs a bill calledSB1596 , which bans parts pairing in the state of Oregon.

According to Apple, it took about two years to reuse the sensors involved in the biometric authentication systems Face ID and Touch ID, and to calibrate the parts when they were installed using a tool to authenticate ' self-service repairs .'



As a result, it will be possible to reuse used parts to replace biometric sensors, displays, batteries, cameras and other parts in some iPhones released after fall 2024. In addition, because the calibration is performed on the device, there is no need to submit the device's serial number when ordering replacement parts from Apple.

'This policy gives iPhone users more options, extends the life of their products, and minimizes the environmental impact of repairs, all while maintaining the privacy, security and safety of our users,' Apple said in a statement. 'We're constantly looking for new ways to design products that last longer and reduce our impact on the planet, while giving our customers the best experience possible.'

Additionally, Apple has announced that it will extend

its Activation Lock feature , which is necessary to prevent thieves from using parts of a stolen device, to iPhone parts as well.



'If a device being repaired has a part transferred from another device that has Activation Lock or Lost Mode enabled, we will detect this and restrict calibration of the part,' Apple reported.

According to The Verge, when an iPhone is repaired with used parts, that information will be stored in the 'Parts and Service History' section of the iOS Settings app. 'This policy, which allows used parts to be used for repairs, will be applied to iPhone 15 and later iPhones,' Apple said.

in Hardware, Posted by log1r_ut