A report from Monday claims Apple is authorizing authorized repair facilities to provide hardware upgrades for certain types of repairs for Apple Watch Series 0 and Series 1 devices, due to a temporary parts shortage.
If a customer initiates a repair order for one of those Apple Watch models, Apple has permitted Apple Authorized Service Providers to offer a 42mm Apple Watch Series 2 as a substitute starting February through April according to the document, obtained by MacRumors from multiple proven sources.
The document does not mention Series 2, Series 3, Series 4, or 38mm models of any kind as qualifying, nor does it specify if the parts constraint is limited to aluminum, stainless steel, or other finishes. No further information is provided.
The document providing the new instructions was distributed to Apple Authorized Service Providers in the United States and other countries, and was also likely sent to Apple Store Genius Bars, although that hasn’t been confirmed.
If your Apple Watch needs repair, you can visit Apple’s “Get Support” page to begin the repair process.