Apple Launches Two Repair Programs in Canada

[MacRumors]

Apple today announced that its Self Service Repair and Genuine Parts Distributor programs are now available in Canada.

Launched in 2022, the Self Service Repair program provides customers with access to genuine Apple parts, tools, and manuals to repair select iPhone, iPad, and Mac models, as well as the Studio Display and the Beats Pill. Apple says the program is "intended for individuals with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices."

Meanwhile, the Genuine Parts Distributor program allows repair shops that do not have a direct relationship with Apple to order genuine iPhone and iPad parts like displays, batteries, and cameras via select third-party distributors. In Canada, parts can be purchased from MobileSentrix. The program launched in the U.S. and Europe earlier this year.

Article Link: Apple Launches Two Repair Programs in Canada

 

[jlc1978]

I wonder how much actual use this program will have.

Most users do not have the skill to do even a minor repair; and probably don't want to mess with ordering parts and a machine to save a few $$.

While availability of genuine parts for 3rd party repair shops, my experience is these places often focus on price and using genuine parts is likely to make the cost difference between them and Apple small enough that people will simply go with Apple. One advantage a store would have is the ability to turn around a repair quicker than Apple for people not close to an Apple Store or ASP.

 

[Hajj.david]

I wonder how much actual use this program will have.

Most users do not have the skill to do even a minor repair; and probably don't want to mess with ordering parts and a machine to save a few $$.

While availability of genuine parts for 3rd party repair shops, my experience is these places often focus on price and using genuine parts is likely to make the cost difference between them and Apple small enough that people will simply go with Apple. One advantage a store would have is the ability to turn around a repair quicker than Apple for people not close to an Apple Store or ASP.

This is a godsend for people out in the sticks or someone like me who is technical enough to do some of these repairs themselves. Apple also has tools to validate the correctness of the repairs which is a nice touch.

 

[jlc1978]

This is a godsend for people out in the sticks or someone like me who is technical enough to do some of these repairs themselves.

For me, the key is the actual ability to do the repairs. It's easy to mess up a repair if you do not have the skill; and the cost difference of Apple doing it vs DIY is minimal, if not the same or more once you add in too rental.

I don't see much benefit for an individual vs. using Apple or an ASP. No, an independent repair shop might find it useful but the margins would be small vs. the investment in tools and parts.

I think it is more of a nod to the right to repair movement and laws than an actual attempt to make DIY easier.

Apple also has tools to validate the correctness of the repairs which is a nice touch.

They certainly have made it better for those who can do the repairs.