Apple’s Genius Bar to Trade MacBook Pros for iPads [Rumor]

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Genius-Bar-Fifth-Avenue-store

A trademark feature at Apple retail stores all over the world is the Genius Bar. Operated by a group of Apple experts, the Genius Bar allows any Mac or iOS device owner to take their device to their nearest Apple store and get technical help, repairs, or replacements.

Along with Apple experts, the Genius Bar sports a line of MacBook Pros which Apple staff use to diagnose problems, order parts for repairs, check the status of your product’s warranty, and more. In this “post-PC” era, however, those MacBook Pros are set to be replaced by the iPad.

According to a report from 9to5Mac, from this week Apple retail stores in a number of markets will be replacing the MacBook Pros on their Genius Bars for the iPad. The tablet is expected to mirror the functionality currently provided by the notebook, and “not only make the Genius’ job easier, but provide a much better experience for Apple’s customers that are looking for repairs and/or help from the Genius Bar.”

Because the iPad is much more portable than the MacBook Pro, the device will allow Genius staff to deal with technical problems from anywhere within the store. This means users with minor issues won’t have to crowd around the Genius Bar, leaving it open to those who need repairs or replacements.

Because the iPad is smaller, it’ll mean more customers can be served at once:

Typically, the Genius Bar can only service as many people as computers at one time at the Genius Bar. Now, due to the size and price of iPads, Apple could service more people at one time at the Genius Bar by installing multiple iPads.

The Cupertino company is also said to be working on a way in which users can sign their Genius Bar invoices on the iPad, rather than paper — just like the EasyPay system currently employed in Apple stores which allows customers to sign for goods on an iPod touch.

If you’ve noticed the Genius Bar in your local Apple store has scrapped its MacBook Pros for iPads, be sure to let us know.

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