After launching the self-repair service for the iPhone, Apple expanded its program to include MacBooks. The technology announced that self-service repairs will be available starting tomorrow for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with M1 processor. Apple will provide genuine manuals, parts and tools through a dedicated store for users living in the United States.
The service will offer over a dozen different repairs for MacBooks with M1, including the display, trackpad, top case with battery, and more. The manuals will be available on the web for consultation, in this way we will know the steps to follow and the parts required in each process. As with the iPhone and Macs, he will be able to rent a professional repair kit to use for a week.
The self repair process this intended for those with experience with electronic devices or for those who don’t mind “getting their hands dirty”. According to Apple, each part is genuine and thoroughly tested to ensure quality, safety and reliability. It goes without saying that you should review the manual well, since each piece is designed for each product.
Once your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro is repaired you can send the replaced parts to Apple for proper recycling. The technology warns that, in some cases, they could reward you with credit to your account.
MacBook self-repair will come to Europe and other countries
Although self-service repairs for MacBooks with the M1 chip will start in the United States, Apple promised that will expand to Europe by the end of the year. For now, the Self Service Repair program is available for iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone SE 3rd generation. Users can order various parts like battery, screen, camera, speakers and other security components.
The self-repair service targets individual technicians who are knowledgeable about electronics. For its part, Apple recommends that the end consumer go to a professional repair provider if you have any problem with your device.
Although technology companies have fought for years against the right to repair, the European Union approved a series of measures to prolong the useful life of electronic devices.
A right to repair “half”
Apple, Samsung and Google have already announced programs to repair their devices. While the former prefers to remain in control, the latter have teamed up with iFixit to offer repair manuals and parts. The latter is important, since Apple’s manuals only consider the use of their tools if you want to repair an iPhone or MacBook.
Some time ago TheVerge reported that the process to repair a simple iPhone battery using Apple’s kit is tedious. Not only does the battery cost the same as the Apple Store charges you to change it, but you’ll pay $49 to rent the repair kit for a week. As a bonus, Apple will place a $1,200 hold on your credit card as a deposit in case you do not deliver the tools after the deadline.
Although Self Service Repair sounds good on paper, the reality is that repairing our devices today is more complex than changing the Nokia or BlackBerry battery once was.