Apple released a White paper It highlights the longevity of its devices and announces the expansion of its self-healing program to Europe.

The 24-page document details its “longevity by design” approach to its products.

Because it’s important. Apple aims to balance the durability and repairability of its products, prioritizing longevity without sacrificing security or performance. This reflects a shift in focus towards greater sustainability and accessibility of repairs.

This change has been gradual and has been in the making for some time. This policy certainly fits better with its sustainable approach rather than the stage where prices can be a deterrent, making it nearly impossible to make any repairs to devices without taking them to official support.

Key points.

• Apple has expanded its self-repair diagnostic program to 32 European countries.
• Support for third-party components on iPhones, such as the screen and battery, will be improved.
• Apple advocates “component matching” as a security measure, not as a way to limit repairs.

Context. Apple has been criticized for years for the difficulty of repairing its devices. A few years ago it began taking steps to improve its repairability. The last one is the repair option with used parts.

This was a decision made partly due to sustainability concerns mandated by the public values ​​declaration and partly due to the growing movement around the right to repair.

In detail. Apple argues that prioritizing longevity over repairability is better for sustainability. And use the iPhone charging port example:

“Making the charging port replaceable would require additional components that would increase carbon emissions for the production of each device. Increased manufacturing emissions can only be justified if the charging port needs to be replaced on at least 10 percent of devices. In fact, the actual service charge was less than 0.1 percent.” “

It’s like the old dilemma between buying a car that’s durable and difficult to repair, and one that’s less durable but easy to repair. Apple prefers the first option and argues that it is best for the environment and the user in the long run.

numbers. According to Apple:

• iPhone is worth at least 40% more than Android phones in the second-hand market.
• Hundreds of millions of iPhones have been in use for more than five years.
• Out-of-warranty repairs decreased by 38% between 2015 and 2022.
• Since improvements were introduced to the iPhone 7 in 2016, repairs for accidental damage to the iPhone have decreased by 44%.

in perspective. Apple’s approach to longevity represents a significant shift in the technology industry. Prioritizing durability and gradually increasing repairability, the company seeks a balance between sustainability, security and user experience.

At Xataka | We are buying more expensive mobile phones than ever before. This is exactly what the big manufacturers wanted.

Featured image | manzana