Apple’s self-service repairs no longer require a call to Apple when you’re done

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https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/06/apples-self-service-repairs-no-longer-require-a-call-to-apple-when-youre-done/

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Apple launched its Self Service Repair program in the spring of 2022, giving owners of some iPhones and Macs access to the same parts and repair manuals used by Apple-certified technicians. Since the program's launch, most changes have focused on adding new devices—most recently, support for M1-series desktops in December 2022. But in a new update today, Apple also announced that it is making the self-repair process slightly less onerous.

The company will now provide a "postrepair software tool" called System Configuration that will handle the process of verifying that repairs were done properly, calibrating and updating the firmware of any replaced components and pairing TouchID and FaceID sensors with the device's Secure Enclave.

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Apple launches self-service repair program for iPhone users in the US
Previously, these steps required a call to Apple's Self Service Repair support team, which would run users through finishing the repair process. Apple says its team will still be on standby if home repairers need help.

Apple is also adding a new crop of devices to the Self Service Repair support list, including all iPhone 14 models, all M2-series MacBook Pro models, and the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air (but not the newly released 15-inch model, at least not yet). These parts will be available starting tomorrow, June 21.


Apple still recommends that most users take their devices to an Apple Store to an Apple-certified technician for repair.

"For the vast majority of users who do not have experience repairing electronic devices, visiting a professional authorized repair provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair," the company said in its press release.

Apple's pricing for commonly replaced components like iPhone batteries is actually pretty good—replacing an iPhone 13 battery will cost around $45 for a "battery bundle," compared to $89 to have the component replaced by Apple or $40 for an iFixit battery kit that includes extra tools but will make the Battery Health feature stop working for the rest of your phone's life. But that $45 price depends on you returning Apple's relatively bulky tool kit within the seven-day window.

Apple’s self-service repairs no longer require a call to Apple when you’re done

System Config tool handles post-repair processes that trip up third-party kits.

arstechnica.com