Apple has announced a new program called Self Service Repair, which will let iPhone 12 and 13 owners get genuine Apple parts, tools, and manuals so they can repair their own devices without taking them to Apple or another third-party repair place.
"Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed," said Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer. "In the past three years, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service locations with access to Apple genuine parts, tools, and training, and now we're providing an option for those who wish to complete their own repairs."
Apple intends to roll out the repair options for displays, batteries, and cameras on iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 devices, as these are the most common parts of the phone that need to be fixed. However, the company will roll out additional repairs in 2022.
According to Apple, the Apple Self Service Repair Online Store will offer more than 200 individual parts and tools.
The company points out that while it's offering this option, most customers will want to take their devices to a professional for repairs. "Self Service Repair is intended for individual technicians with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices. For the vast majority of customers, visiting a professional repair provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair," the company said in a blog post.
If you're confident in your ability to fix your own phone, this is a great announcement for you, as Apple will actually make the process easier, rather than trying to stop you from doing it.