Repair equipment rental only $49 per week
No consultation service even if problems occur during repair
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Apple has opened an online store offering self-repair services such as iPhone screen replacements. Since the cost is not significantly different from leaving the device at an Apple Store service center, and technical support will not be provided for issues arising during repairs, controversy is expected.
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 27th (local time), Apple launched an online store providing repair manuals and selling replacement parts for its products. The site sells over 200 parts related to screens, batteries, cameras, and more, which can fix problems with the iPhone 12, iPhone 13 models, and this year's updated iPhone SE.
By entering the serial number of the broken device, users can receive repair manuals and necessary parts information through the site. Apple plans to sell repair parts and related tools for Macs equipped with silicon chips by the end of this year. Currently, the service is available only in the United States, but it is expected to expand to Europe starting at the end of this year and then to other countries.
However, it does not seem advisable to expect cost savings through 'self-repair.' Doing the repair yourself is either no different in cost from leaving it at a service center or could even be more expensive. For example, if the screen of an iPhone 12 mini is broken, purchasing genuine parts from the self-repair site costs $225.96 (about 285,800 KRW), while the service center charges $229, a difference of only $3.
Considering that repair parts and equipment must be borne separately, the cost difference may become even smaller or reversed. The price of a single screw starts at 19 cents, and a bundle including various tools needed for repair can be rented for $49 per week.
Apple has also announced that it will not provide technical support for self-repairs. Even if users do not know what to do after disassembling the product or have questions, they will not be connected to a support representative. If the device is damaged or problems occur during repair, users can request help at an Apple Store, but in that case, additional costs must be paid.
Originally, Apple maintained a closed policy regarding repair services, but opened the self-repair site proactively after the 'Right to Repair Act' was submitted to the U.S. Congress.
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