Apple Relaxes Its Long-Term Screen Repair Policy by Third Parties That Previously Renders the iPhone Warranty Void

Apple recently changed its long-term policy involving third-party screen repairs. A new memo from the Cupertino-based company stated that iPhone owners who had their screen repaired by a third-party source can still avail of the product warranty. Previously, third-party display repairs render with iPhone warranty void.

Before, Apple had a long-standing policy that a device with a third-party display will void the iPhone warranty. In addition, they refused to perform any kind of repair on the device. The recent shift allows Apple users to return to Apple for official servicing even after they previously had third-party sources work on the device, writes Tech Radar. Apple is also enticing users to have their iPhone screens replaced at authorized outlets. In 2016, Apple featured a new $29 screen repair tier, which lets customers quickly repair their screen with official parts at an affordable price. This is in line with some recent adjustments made to AppleCare+.

The memo was obtained by 9to5Mac, addressing Apple retail stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers. The document stated that concerned iPhones must be inspected for tampering or fraud, and then proceed with the repair. However, the Apple warranty must not be related to the screen, which was previously repaired by a third-party source.

The new Apple policy also provided certain conditions. If the third-party display results to the failure of the repair or damages the iPhone during repair, users will be required to cover the out-of-warranty cost to fix the issue. It could mean replacing the third-party part with one from Apple or replacing the entire iPhone. If the problem is linked to the third-party screen, Apple can completely turn away customers, unless they agree to pay the out-of-warranty repair cost.

The Apple repair services will be applicable if the device is still under the warranty period, including both the standard one-year warranty, as well as the extended Apple Care warranty. The device should initially be inspected to ensure that no component or the casing has not been damaged by the previous third-party servicing on the screen. Even a slight damage from previous third-party repairs can void the warranty. Other issues that surface due to third-party servicing will also cost extra charges for customers.

Users who wish to replace the third-party display with an official part from Apple should have employees quote the out-of-warranty price. AppleCare+ will not cover the repair or replacement price. The Apple policy change is reportedly available in the United States, Canada, and other countries worldwide. More updates and details are expected soon.