It’s a quiet update, but it makes a difference.
Apple recently updated its Support web site to include a feature that allows users to find and schedule repairs for iPhones, Macs, and iPads from Apple Authorized Service Providers.
When troubleshooting a product, choosing “Bring in for Repair” after going through Apple’s support prompts now brings up all repair centers near a customer, including Apple’s own retail stores and retail locations where customers can get repairs from Apple Authorized Service Providers.
The site includes nearly all local Apple Authorized Service Providers and lists availability for the fastest repairs and same-day service. There’s also an option to book a repair directly from the site.
Where getting a repair appointment at an Apple Store Genius Bar location often requires days to a week of waiting, Apple Authorized Service Providers can typically offer access to a much faster repair.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, for example, local Apple Stores do not have repair appointments until next week, but third-party repair shops like Best Buy, Clickaway, Mobile Kangaroo, and Computercare have appointments today or tomorrow.
Apple Authorized Service Providers have been officially authorized by Apple to perform repairs on Apple devices. Both AppleCare repairs and out-of-warranty repair services are available, but many customers may not be aware of local options outside of an Apple Store.
The new access to third-party service providers should provide relief for customers needing quick repairs as well as allow Apple to keep up with ongoing repair requests.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.