Apple to offer self-repair service for iPhones

Driving the news: Apple says the new self-repair service will give customers access to more than 200 parts and tools in a new online store, set to open early next year.

• The initial equipment will be to make common repairs to iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, including the display, battery and camera.
• Apple said it will expand the program to Mac computers with M1 chips.

Between the lines: The FTC released a report in May that found "scant evidence to support manufacturers’ justifications for repair restrictions."

• The commission in July voted unanimously to approve a policy statement on increased enforcement against unlawful restrictions.
• "These types of restrictions can significantly raise costs for consumers, stifle innovation, close off business opportunity for independent repair shops, create unnecessary electronic waste, delay timely repairs and undermine resiliency,” Chair Lina Khan said in a statement at the time.

What they're saying: “Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed,” Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, said in a statement.