The Apple Independent Repair Provider program will soon be available in nearly every country where Apple products are sold, making it easier for users to find a reliable place to get their smartphone, laptop or other device fixed.
The program gives repair providers of all sizes access to genuine Apple parts, tools, repair manuals and diagnostics to fix iPhones, Macs and other devices.
It launched in the U.S. in 2019, and grew to include Canada and Europe in 2020. And soon it’ll be available in over 200 countries around the world.
Benefits of the Apple Independent Repair Provider program
There is no cost to join the program. And all participants get access to free training from Apple and the same genuine parts, tools, repair manuals, and diagnostics as Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) and Apple Store locations. The only requirement is that repair providers must commit to having an Apple-certified technician to perform the repairs.
It’s a way for Apple to support small mom-and-pop repair shops, but also exercise control over the quality of those repairs. “Being a part of the Independent Repair Provider program has been a huge benefit to my business, employees, and customers,” said Scott Baker, owner of Mister Mac in Wimberley, Texas. “Since joining, we’ve received great support from Apple, and we’re able to deliver that same level of service to our customers.”
There are benefits for Apple users as well. Thanks to the program, it’s easier for people to get out-of-warranty iPhones, iPads, etc. properly repaired with reliable parts.
Joining up
Apple on Monday released a list of nearly 40 countries where companies can apply to become an Independent Repair Provider later this week. Those in a far more extensive list of countries will be able to apply later this year, though no exact date was given by the iPhone-maker.
Visit Apple’s support website for a complete list of the countries in both groups.
Source: Apple