Apple introduces self-service repair into Ireland as ‘right to repair’ movement gathers pace

Apple’s new move, which will apply to iPhone 15 models and M2 Macs, comes against the backdrop of EU legislation requiring manufacturers to make things more repairable

Apple has announced that it is expanding its ‘Self Service Repair’ into Ireland and 23 other countries.

It is also launching a new diagnostic tool that gives users more transparency and autonomy to troubleshoot issues, although this is US-only for the moment, with availability in Europe to come next year.

Self Service Repair is now available for all iPhone 15 models as well as all Mac models that have M2 chips under the hood, including the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro, the 15-inch MacBook Air, Mac mini, Mac Pro, and Mac Studio.

It gives anyone with experience repairing electronic devices access to the manuals, “genuine” Apple parts and tools used at Apple Store and Apple Authorised Service Provider locations.

Apple says that it’s “part of Apple's broader commitment to expand repair options for consumers”.

The move comes as the EU is introducing legislation aimed at giving consumers more rights to repair electronic and household goods.

As well as requiring companies to fix things themselves at low, or no, cost, the new EU law says that “independent repairers, refurbishers and end-users” should get “access to all spare parts, information, and tools at a reasonable cost” throughout the lifespan of a product.

Apple devices have been difficult to repair by ordinary users, with tinkering often deemed a warranty-invalidating action.

“Intended for users with the knowledge and expertise to repair Apple devices, Apple Diagnostics troubleshooting sessions will give customers the same ability as Apple Authorised Service Providers and Independent Repair Providers to test devices for optimal part functionality and performance, as well as identify which parts may need repair,” said the company of its soon-to-be-introduced diagnostic tool.

“For users who don't have experience repairing electronic devices, visiting a professional Apple Authorised Service Provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts, designed and tested to internationally recognised standards, is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair.”

Over the past three years, the company says, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service locations with access to genuine Apple parts, tools, and training, including more than 4,500 independent repair providers. A global network of more than 5,000 Apple Authorised Service Providers supports more than 100,000 active technicians.

Reporting On:independent.ie