Apple: Independent repair shops to be allowed access to official iPhone spare parts

If you have ever watched Louis Rossmann's YouTube channel, you will be aware of the hoops that independent repair shops must jump through to repair iPhones. However, Apple has turned over a new leaf, with it announcing yesterday that it would provide independent providers with iPhone spare parts, allowing them to carry out official repairs. Independent workshops will also have access to Apple's proprietary tools, making it easier for them to safely disassemble and reassemble devices.

This change should benefit consumers in several ways, not least of which reducing costs for out of warranty repairs. Apple is also offering a training program for technicians who want to become certified for iPhone repairs. The course is apparently free and lasts 40 hours.

Furthermore, the opening of its repair processes should allow third-party technicians to use unofficial spare parts. Currently, third-party battery replacements may trigger error messages, but third-party technicians should soon be able to disable the software flags causing these error messages with access to official repair software. Apple still recommends only using official spare parts, of course.

Overall, this is an unusual yet promising step considering the dogmatic attitude Apple has previously had with iPhone repairs. The company will initially launch its Independent Repair Provider Program in the US, but it should soon expand the program globally.