Apple today announced an upcoming policy change that will significantly impact the repair industry.
Starting this Autumn, they will allow customers and independent repair providers to utilise used genuine Apple parts for repairs. They will start with parts for selected iPhone models, which will positively impact the iPhone repairs we offer at iCorrect. This move aims to enhance device longevity, security, and environmental sustainability. It represents a significant shift in Apple’s approach to repairs, aligning more closely with the needs of independent repair shops and consumers seeking reliable and sustainable repair options.
Impact on Independent Repairers
Apple’s new policy marks a turning point for independent repairers by clearly distinguishing those who use genuine pulled parts from those using aftermarket alternatives. This shift is likely to reduce the use of aftermarket parts, as genuine parts should become more accessible, ensuring repairs meet higher standards of quality and reliability. This change not only enhances the reputation of independent repairers who use genuine parts but also aligns them more closely with Apple’s standards, potentially increasing customer trust and satisfaction.
Changes to Parts Calibration
Apple’s forthcoming changes will streamline the repair process significantly. Now, the calibration of genuine Apple parts, whether new or used, will be performed on the device itself after installation, rather than requiring connection to Apple’s servers. This enhancement simplifies repairs by removing the need for server-based pairing, making it easier for repair providers and customers alike. Additionally, future iPhone models will support reused biometric sensors (Touch ID & Face ID).
Current Repair Practices with Genuine Parts
At iCorrect, we source our original parts from used devices and refurbish them in-house. However, because these genuine parts are not obtained directly from Apple, they immediately fail device calibration since each part is serialised to a specific logic board. This can result in lost features like True Tone on screens or battery health reporting on batteries. New parts sourced from Apple go through a system calibration which confirms the part and ‘allows’ full functionality.
Apple’s unfair policy has made it challenging for us, as we must transfer microchips from the customer’s original device to the refurbished part to maintain full functionality. This is a process we complete with all paired parts with our iPhone repairs. This complex microchip transfer process underscores the difficulties faced by independent repairers using genuine but not Apple-direct parts, effectively penalising us for trying to uphold a high repair standard with genuine components.
Benefits for Consumers
With Apple’s new policy, consumers will benefit significantly as it becomes easier to actually verify if independent repairers are using genuine parts. This change reduces the need for specialised microelectronics knowledge among repairers, broadening access to quality repairs globally. It also marks a significant shift towards sustainable repairs, aligning with our long-standing advocacy for sustainability in the industry. This move by Apple supports a more robust, accessible, and environmentally friendly repair ecosystem.
Activation Lock and Corporate Devices
Apple’s policy of treating parts from activation-locked devices as if they were from stolen devices is problematic. Activation-locked devices are often former corporate assets that have been recycled responsibly. Unfortunately, Apple’s restrictions hinder the reuse of these parts, impacting the circular economy negatively. While we recognise the need to exclude genuinely lost or stolen devices, extending this to all activation-locked devices ignores the potential for responsible recycling by major global recyclers who handle such corporate returns.
Implications for the Circular Economy
Apple’s decision to allow the use of genuine used parts is a significant boost for the circular economy. More devices will be disassembled for parts instead of ending up in landfills, enhancing sustainability in device repairs and use. This is a positive step towards a more sustainable future, reflecting a major shift in how electronic waste is managed.
Future Partnerships with Apple
We see Apple’s new policy as a promising development for future partnerships, recognising those globally who are making positive changes. This move will encourage more independent repairers to use genuine used parts, aligning with our longstanding practice at iCorrect, of utilising used parts and promoting recycling. We believe this shift paves the way for a future where sustainable practices are more widely adopted, further solidifying our role as a leader in sustainable repairs.
Thank you for reading.
By Ricky Panesar
