Notoriously known for opposing right-to-repair initiatives, Apple has taken a surprising turn by publicly supporting California’s Right to Repair Act, SB 244. The bill, if passed, would mandate that companies furnish customers with the necessary tools, documentation, and parts to diagnose and repair consumer electronics and appliances. Apple’s move comes after the launch of its Self Service Repair program for iPhones and Macs, which offers customers repair kits, repair manuals, and components for do-it-yourself repairs.
According to repair website iFixit, Apple’s already existing Self Service Repair program and its repair programs for shops—such as becoming Apple Authorized Service Providers or sourcing parts through the Independent Repair Provider Program—likely already meet the bill’s requirements. Under the proposed legislation, non-authorized repair facilities would also have to disclose whether they are using manufacturer-approved parts or used and counterfeit components.
The California bill includes a specific clause preventing manufacturers from having to release tools, parts, and documentation that could potentially disable or bypass anti-theft security features like Face ID. This caveat seems to align with Apple’s concerns about customer safety and device integrity.
Apple’s support letter stressed the importance of the bill offering “protections for customers and innovators.” The company highlighted aspects of the bill that ensure consumer safety and data security, require manufacturers to provide necessary documentation and parts, and mandate repair providers to disclose the use of non-genuine or used parts.
The bill also has a forward-looking approach, proposing that repair information be made available for seven years for any product costing over $99.99.
This requirement, should it be implemented, is set to bring further advantages to California customers by providing longevity to their electronics.
