Apple today announced that it is launching a new Independent Repair Provider Program, which will begin in the United States with independent repair shops offering genuine Apple components, genuine parts, tools, training manuals and diagnostics.
The program will allow independent repair shops to offer out-of-warranty iPhone, such as screen and battery, without any mention of in-warranty repairs. Apple has created a new page on its website where businesses can learn more and sign up.
To qualify, repair shops must be a legitimate business with verification documents available for Apple to review, must be located in a commercial zone, and must have an Apple-certified technician to perform iPhone when using genuine parts. There is no cost to join the program.
Apple also states that meeting the requirements does not guarantee your acceptance into the program and reserves the right to reject any application without comment.
Jeff Williams, Apple COO:
“To better serve our customers’ needs, we’re making it easier for independent service providers across the U.S. to tap into the same resources as Apple’s network of authorized service providers. When a repair is needed, a customer should have confidence that it’s being done right. We believe that the safest and most reliable repair requires a trained technician using genuine parts that have been properly built and rigorously tested.”
Over the past year, Apple said it launched a pilot project with 20 independent repair businesses in North America, Europe and Asia, which are now offering genuine parts for repairs. Apple plans to expand the program to other countries over time.
