## Apple Expands Repair Options, Allowing Genuine Used Parts
Apple is introducing a major shift in its iPhone repair policies, allowing the use of genuine used parts in repairs. This move marks a departure from the company’s previous strict stance on part replacement.
Parts Pairing: A Controversial Practice
Apple’s previous policy of “parts pairing” required its software to approve replacement parts. This practice has drawn criticism from third-party repair shops and consumer advocates who argue that it restricts competition and makes repairs more expensive.
Oregon’s Right-to-Repair Law
The announcement comes amidst growing pressure from states to ban parts pairing. Oregon recently became the first state to enact a right-to-repair law prohibiting this practice. Similar legislation is pending in other states, including Colorado.
Apple Yields to Pressure
Apple’s decision to allow genuine used parts is seen by many as a response to these legislative efforts. “This move is because of state lawmakers pushing back on this practice,” said Nathan Proctor, a right-to-repair advocate.
Limitations and Exceptions
The new policy will apply to “select” iPhone models starting this fall, including the iPhone 15 and newer. However, it does not cover aftermarket parts, a distinction that has drawn criticism from some advocates.
Parts Calibration and Theft Deterrence
Apple claims that genuine used parts will function “just like new genuine Apple parts” once calibrated to the device. Additionally, the company is introducing measures to reduce the appeal of iPhone theft, such as locking parts from stolen or lost phones.
Significance of the Changes
These changes represent a significant departure from Apple’s long-held stance on third-party repair. While repair advocates welcome the move, they see it as a minimum effort. “This was a fully untenable, unethical practice to begin with,” said Proctor. “We need laws that prevent this from happening on any device from any manufacturer.”
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to allow genuine used parts in iPhone repairs is a response to growing pressure from lawmakers and consumer advocates. While the move expands repair options, advocates argue that it falls short of a comprehensive right-to-repair solution and that legislation is still needed to ensure fair and accessible repairs for all electronic devices.