When your iPhone is under warranty, it makes sense to take it back to Apple to get it fixed, where usually it will cost you almost nothing. However, when it is out of warranty, taking it back to Apple could be a rather expensive practice.
This is why some customers choose to take their iPhones to non-Apple repair centers. Apple has butted heads with these practices but it looks like the company is willing to concede a bit. Apple has recently launched what they are calling the Independent Repair Provider Program. What this means is that small repair stores will be given the opportunity to officially repair iPhones.
These shops under the program will be given access to genuine Apple components, training, and resources that are provided to authorized service providers. Companies who are interested can actually sign up for free, where their employees will need to undergo a training program which will also be provided by Apple.
We’re not sure if there is a catch to this program, but it could help smaller businesses who previously had to buy iPhone components from the grey market which might not be genuine.
Apple has come under fire for some of their practices regarding non-official repairs. For example, it wasn’t too long ago that Apple implemented some changes that would prevent the iPhone’s battery health from showing if it was repaired by an unauthorized service provider.