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Last week, Apple announced a new program to allow consumers to make repairs to some iPhone models. What!? Surely this is a joke.
Not really. This is happening because the US FTC (Federal Trade Commission) says that customers have a "right to repair" things that they buy, including electronic devices.
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.
I'm sorry, but this is just idiotic. What kind of person thinks that with a few tools, they can have a go at repairing an iPhone? Imagine trying to jimmy open the case, like it's a sticky can of pilchards. This will have to come with a massive disclaimer: "if you screw this up, it's on you".
Mind you, the tools will sell well. I'm sure you've heard about the new Apple-branded cleaning cloth that costs $19 and immediately sold out. People will rush to buy a fancy set of Apple screwdrivers, I'm sure. Nice to fondle and look at, but never use.
More important than this "self-repair" nonsense is that that Apple shares traded at a new all-time high on Friday, above $160 per share.
