Apple Expands the Independent Repair Provider Program

As you probably know already, repairing an iPhone is only recommended as long as you go to an Apple Store, as otherwise, there’s a chance your device could end up using non-genuine parts that may cause it to malfunction.

Apple has a dedicated program called Independent Repair Provider that gives providers access to genuine parts, tools, repair manuals, and diagnostics for out of warranty repairs, essentially making it possible for customers to fix their iPhones at other shops too.

Until recently, however, the available of the program has been fairly limited, but in an announcement this week, Apple says it’s bringing it to more than 200 countries, thus making it available in almost every country where Apple products are sold.

“There is no cost to join Apple’s Independent Repair Provider program. To qualify, repair providers need to commit to have an Apple-certified technician to perform the repairs. The process for certification is simple and free of charge. Qualifying repair providers can purchase genuine Apple parts and tools at the same price as AASPs and receive free access to training, repair manuals, and diagnostics,” Apple explains.

Over 1,500 Independent Repair Provider locations already live

The full list of countries where the new repair program is going live is available below.

“All participating repair providers in the program have 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. To verify that a company participates in the program, visit support.apple.com/repair/verify-repair-provider,” the company explains.

According to the official numbers, there are currently more than 1,5000 independent repair provider locations in the Untied States, Canada, and Europe, and needless to say, many more are expected to open their doors in the coming months as the new program becomes available in their region.