Apple recently announced the extension of its Independent Repair Provider service, which will be available in virtually every country where Apple products are sold. As a result, someone close to you could soon be repairing your Apple devices with official Apple pieces.
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The Independent Repair Provider program is currently only available in the United States, Canada, and Europe, but repair providers from Australia, Korea, and Japan will be able to enter the program this week, according to Apple’s announcement. Later this year, providers from other nations, including China, will be able to join the program.
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These service providers must apply to join the Independent Repair Provider program, after which they will be eligible to purchase a limited range of official Apple products such as batteries, displays, and diagnostic equipment.
This ensures that once the local repair person joins the program, he or she will be able to assist you with common problems involving these basic pieces. If you need anything more intensive, you’ll need to go through Apple or one of its authorized service providers, or you risk losing your warranty and potentially becoming unsupported.
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If you want to be a part of the program as a repair technician for Apple products, there are a few things you should know. If you’ve signed up for the service, you’ll be forced to sign a contract granting Apple the power to audit repair shops and fine them if something bad happens.
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According to sources, Apple will charge $1,000 per transaction to any repair shop that uses knockoff parts in more than 2% of repairs.
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You will find a full list of countries and regions that can join the Independent Repair Provider program here.