Apple has launched its self-service repair program in Canada, allowing customers to repair their own devices. The program, which began on Tuesday, provides access to manuals, diagnostic software, and parts for iPads, iPhones, and Macs. Customers can purchase necessary parts and rent or buy tools for repairs.

Brian Naumann, Apple’s vice president of AppleCare service and repair, stated that the initiative aims to "broaden device longevity, reduce waste, and empower both customers and repair professionals with quality, secure repair options." Canada is now the 34th country to offer this program, which includes parts such as batteries and glass screen covers. Available tools include torque drivers, adhesive cutters, and screw bits.

Despite the program's benefits, the self-repair option often comes with a higher initial cost compared to in-house repairs. For instance, a battery and screw kit for an iPhone 16 costs $135 plus tax. In contrast, Apple charges about $99 for battery replacement at its stores. A camera and screw kit for the same iPhone is priced at $219, exceeding the estimated $169 cost for a rear camera repair by Apple.

Customers can receive credits for returning used or damaged parts for refurbishment or recycling. For example, returning an old iPhone 16 battery can yield a $64.80 credit, reducing the repair cost to $70.20. Similarly, returning parts for a camera repair can provide a $52.56 credit, lowering the total repair cost to $166.44.

Anthony Rosborough, a law professor at Dalhousie University and co-founder of the Canadian Repair Coalition, expressed mixed feelings about the program. He acknowledged the importance of making repairs easier but described Apple's initiative as "a bit of an eyeroll." He noted that Apple's self-service repair program in the U.S. has faced criticism from right-to-repair advocates due to various deficiencies.

Rosborough pointed out that some products, like the MacBook Air with an M4 chip released in March 2025, still have components that are difficult to repair, such as a glued battery. He emphasized that while the self-repair program is promising, it does not address the design issues that complicate repairs.

He also mentioned that in some cases, the cost of DIY repairs can be nearly as high as purchasing a new device. For example, replacing a digitizer can cost nearly half the price of a new iPad, often leading customers to opt for replacements instead of repairs.

Rosborough believes that instead of relying on companies like Apple to implement self-repair programs, legislation should be introduced to mandate how far manufacturers must go to assist customers in fixing their products.

In addition to the self-repair program, Apple has begun providing access to genuine Apple parts through wholesale distributors for repair providers without a direct service relationship with the company. These parts include displays, batteries, and charging ports for iPhones and iPads, available through MobileSentrix, a retailer located in Concord, Ontario.