I covered the changes to Apple’s repair programs last week – here’s some perspective. according to research by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners
CIRP’s research suggests that almost all iPhones in use display in “useable” condition, and most iPhones have a battery in “useable” condition. Twelve percent of iPhone displays are cracked but useable, and just six percent are unusable and need replacement. Twenty-six percent of iPhone batteries provide battery life lasting half a day without charging, and 14 percent need to be set every couple of hours. Battery replacements are likely among the most common repairs, but comparatively few active devices need replacing either of these parts subject to high wear and tear.
The small number of active devices in need of replacement parts, combined with the fact that many users will not be comfortable completing their repairs, indicates that very few iPhone users will take advantage of the Self Service Repair program
Two reasons. First, I don’t expect this change to open up a massive market. That’s not the point of the right to repair. It’s about independent shops having options and about consumers having a choice. That leads to competition, which is good for the market.
Second, measuring active devices misses out on ones that were decommissioned too early. It’s a big hole in the data. Note that this was iPhones in use – the goal of the right to repair is to extend the lifespan of these devices.