Looking for a trusted Apple device technician will soon be easier with the company’s expansion of their Independent Repair Provider (IRP) program. It’s meant for smaller repair shops to service out-of-warranty iPhones and Macs, decreasing the reliance on the limited number of Apple stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASP) worldwide.
Certified IRPs will have free training and access to genuine tools, parts, manuals, and diagnostics that are used by AASPs and Apple stores themselves. There’s no cost to join the program but participating shop/store must meet the requirements.
First is having a dedicated Apple Certified Technician who will handle the repairs. They must pass an exam via online Authorized Testing Center with certifications updated annually. Fees are not disclosed for first time applicants but it’s waived if you’re coming from a certified IRP.
Next is being an established business that’s not an Apple distributor or reseller, meaning this is really for those who are really into the repair side of things. Business documents must be available for review by Apple and must sign confidentiality agreements. They must also have no Apple trademark names in their name or website.
Place of business is also meticulous. They “must maintain a commercial walk-in service location in an easily accessible location.” Repair shops operating out of homes will not be considered for the program.
Independent repair shops from the Philippines can join the program starting ‘later this week’ via http://support.apple.com/irp-program.
The Independent Repair Provider program was first launched in the US in 2019 and was introduced to Canada and Europe last year. It comes after the company is embattled with the Right to Repair movement in the US as its products become harder and harder to service by third-party technicians.
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