Apple expands DIY self-repair program for laptops

Beginning today, Apple will let you self-repair certain MacBooks. The tech giant is expanding its Self Service Repair Program to some of its laptops. This means you can now crack open your laptops and do some basic repairs all by yourself. Instead of the usual process of going to their service centers every time you have a MacBook issue.

However, the self-repair option doesn’t apply to all Apple laptops. Only users with MacBook models that have M1 chips can have the access to the program. This includes MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. If a consumer’s laptop is eligible, they will have access to repairing ma gals and ordering parts. Users can also rent or purchase the tools needed to manually fix the laptops. 

Apple confirmed this in a statement on Monday, Aug. 23. According to them, customers will now be able to do more than a dozen repairs on their own. Users can now perform immediate fixes to the trackpad, the display, the top case with battery, and a whole lot more. The tech company is also planning to add additional repairs moving forward.

Just this year, Apple debuted the Self Service Repair Program for iPhone 12, iPhone SE, and all iPhone 13 models. Including some MacBook models in the self-repair program is part of the company’s plan to extend the service to all of its products. They are also planning to expand the program worldwide, starting in Europe. 

Apple has expanded self service repair to M1 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro Models ‼️💻

Beginning tomorrow, August 23, you can go to https://t.co/TUU7Y6U0AP to order genuine Apple parts and tools to repair your Mac.

Apple says additional Macs and countries will be supported later. pic.twitter.com/YimERfGWCE

— AppleTrack (@appltrack) August 22, 2022

Apple decided to finally allow its consumers the right to repair. This follows after years of pressure from state legislatures, activists, the Biden administration, and even the consumers themselves. Although the tech giant would just partially allow the self-repair option, it is a big move for them. 

Apple’s Legal Battles

The tech giant has long battled against letting users repair their own devices. Apple once sticks to a repair monopoly policy and seeks ways to halt self-repair options. It disabled Face ID on the iPhone 13s replaced and repaired with aftermarket screens. It even fought lawmakers in various states over the issue. In their defense, Apple told the US Congress that it’s dangerous and risky to let people fix their own devices.

However, after years of receiving legislative and consumer backlash, the company finally gave in. Moreover, the White House has formally supported the right-to-repair movement. On top of that, the FTC is also launching investigations into companies limiting the customer’s choice to self-repair.

Apple has made a big move with this decision. But there’s still a lot to improve. For instance, the tools and manuals they provide are still limited. On a positive note, small changes always lead to bigger ones. 

Furthermore, consumers need to purchase the tools to repair their Apple devices. You can rent tools from them for one week priced at $49. It comes with free shipping if you don’t buy the tools outright. Customers can also earn credits for returning a replaced part for recycling. 

Amid Apple opening up on the self-repair option, it still suggests in a blog post that visiting a certified technician is still the “safest and most reliable way to get a repair.”