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Apple plans on making ‘same-unit repairs’ possible for iPhones with broken Face ID parts, report says

Photo credit: Szabo Viktor / Unsplash

One of the dreaded issues on recent iPhone models is a broken Face ID because it sometimes requires replacing the entire unit to resolve the problem. However, a new report suggests that could change soon in a way that will benefit Apple Stores, authorized service providers, and the customers.

An Apple internal memo was recently obtained by MacRumors that reportedly discussed how the company plans on making Face ID repairs simpler. The document reportedly revealed that Apple will allow authorized service centers to access a new TrueDepth Camera repair component that includes the Face ID module and front camera. The new repair parts, however, are expected to be compatible with iPhone XS or later models.

This is viewed as a significant improvement as it will no longer require technicians to only replace the Face ID modules, instead of replacing the entire unit to resolve an issue with the front-facing camera system. The same memo reportedly noted that this change is part of Apple’s long-term efforts to reduce its carbon emission.

However, it could also be a cost-effective initiative since it is likely going to be cheaper for Apple Stores and authorized service providers to perform same-unit repairs than replacing an entire iPhone. The report did not mention other benefits to this new repair practice, but it might also reduce the time users will have to spend away from their precious phones since they would no longer have to wait for a new unit to have their Face ID issues fixed.

MacRumors added that same-unit repairs due to Face ID issues could be cost-friendly to the customers as well. But the report said the internal memo did not mention any details about repair pricing. At the moment, out-of-warranty repair costs for the “other damage” category cost between $399 to $599 for iPhones released from 2018, except for the 2020 iPhone SE. Owners of iPhones covered by AppleCare+ also have to pay an “All Other Damage fee” of $99 to repair any “accidental damage.”

Photo by Szabo Viktor on Unsplash

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