Apple has faced massive pressure from the European Union (EU) in the past few years which has resulted in the App Store allowing sideloaded apps, and bringing USB-C to iPhones. But the regulator isn’t done with making big changes, as the EU is now eyeing the repair ecosystem, especially with the electronics running out of warranty. They want to encourage repairing products rather than replacing them which is equally beneficial to prevent collection of massive e-waste.
Repair, Not Replace Your Devices
The mantra from the EU is clear and makes a lot of sense. It wants to incentivise repairing your iPhone, appliances and more. The new law suggests people will get a one-year additional warranty if they get their in-warranty electronics repaired. It is also imperative that out-of-warranty policies are revised so that people don’t need to discard a reliable machine/system before its end of life.
The EU body also wants to set up an online platform where you can get details about repair shops, sellers of reused devices and other repair support shops.
Making Repairs Budget-Friendly And Last Longer
The EU ruling also warrants a new pricing scheme for the repair parts and make them available in quantity to avoid the possibility of overpricing them out of the market. For instance, if you use an iPhone 10 and want its camera or display fixed, Apple should make the parts available that too at a reasonable price.
Additionally, the EU bill demands companies allow use of 3D-printed spare parts for the damaged device. Imagine if you could replace a main screw or bolt on an iPhone without paying Apple a premium for these parts, that’s what the EU envisages with its new bill.
These terms look fairly practical and consumers will surely be pleased to see their repair issues being worked on but for all this to materialise, the bill will need to be passed in the next 2 years.
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