In a historic about-face, Apple publicly supports right-to-repair bill

111@zerobytes.monster to Technology@lemmy.ml – 158 points –
In a historic about-face, Apple publicly supports right-to-repair bill
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Any idea what prompted this about face?

They know the way the wind is blowing on this issue, and they trade in public image nearly as much as they do in physical goods. This is a good look for them, and when it was clear they wouldn’t win, they’re happy to join the winning side.

It’s also not completely out of left field—they’ve been expanding access to previously-internal repair guides and even tools over the last few years.

They've done pr things before too. The apple certified repair program is incredibly restrictive and expensive, the existing self repair even more so. So I'll look at what they're saying very carefully and critically.

Pessimistic: Apple lawyers have arguments prepared that DRM'ing individual components does not violate this law.

Less Pessimistic: Apple got a sufficient head start in supporting third-party repairs that it would be beneficial for them to get this law passed so that other manufacturers scramble to catch up.

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The last time it failed it was supposed to come back with allowing modules instead of parts. Apple would be fine with selling "modules" as they consider their devices to be top case, bottom case, motherboard, battery, and screen (has stuff attached.) If they can have a needs calibration some where to shame 3rd party repairs and not allow board level repair it is just what they wanted.

They're probably trying to get ahead of legislation.

Or at least not be seen as losing this fight. They’ve apparently decided that this is not the hill to die on.

This is the...3rd? 4th? time they've "about faced" on R2R. It's a sham. Every time.

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