In a major strategy change when it comes to Apple’s repairs business, the company has announced a new program under which it will provide certified technicians and businesses offering repair services (in-warranty and out-of-warranty ) for any Apple product with tools and genuine parts.
Earlier, if any independent repair shop required Apple products or parts, they had to order them in large quantities, which were often not economical for small businesses. Also, the prices of products/parts for independent shops and AASPs (Apple Authorized Service Providers) differed by a huge margin.
With the launch of this new program, independent repair shop owners can also get the tools and parts at the same price as that of AASPs. Under the program dubbed Independent Repair Provider Program (IRPP), qualifying businesses can gain access to Apple genuine parts, tools, training, service guides, diagnostics, and resources. So, out-of-warranty devices such as iPhones can now get a screen or battery replacement from any qualified repair shop.
“To better meet our customers’ needs, we’re making it easier for independent providers across the US to tap into the same resources as our Apple Authorized Service Provider network,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, in a press release.
Joining IRPP is free of cost with the only condition being the availability of an Apple-certified technician. In case, a technician doesn’t have certification, it can be obtained by applying for the certification process. The process involves passing an exam based on a 40-hour online course.
“When a repair is needed, a customer should have confidence the repair is done right. We believe the safest and most reliable repair is one handled by a trained technician using genuine parts that have been properly engineered and rigorously tested,” Williams added.
The Independent Repair Provider Program is currently launching in the US but Apple plans to expand this in other countries in a few months.
