Apple today announced it is launching a new Independent Repair Provider Program that will allow independent repair shops to repair out-of-warranty iPhones using genuine Apple parts.
Apple’s new program that will provide independent repair shops with the same genuine parts, tools, training, repair manuals and diagnostics as its Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs). The iPhone repair program is launching in the US with plans to expand to other countries.
“To better meet our customers’ needs, we’re making it easier for independent providers across the US to tap into the same resources as our Apple Authorized Service Provider network,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “When a repair is needed, a customer should have confidence the repair is done right. We believe the safest and most reliable repair is one handled by a trained technician using genuine parts that have been properly engineered and rigorously tested.”
The program will allow independents to offer out-of-warranty service for iPhones, such as display and battery replacements. In-warranty iPhone repairs or repairs for other Apple devices was not mentioned in the announcement.
There is no cost to join Apple’s independent repair program. To qualify for the new program, businesses need to have an Apple-certified technician who can perform the iPhone repairs. The process for certification is simple and free of charge. To learn more and apply, visit support.apple.com/irp-program. Qualifying repair businesses will receive Apple-genuine parts, tools, training, repair manuals and diagnostics at the same cost as AASPs.
Apple says that over the past year it launched a pilot program with 20 independent repair businesses in North America, Europe, and Asia who are currently offering genuine parts for repairs. Apple plans to expand the program to other countries in the future.