Samsung's new self-repair program allows customers to fix their phones
Samsung has launched a self-repair program in the US to enable customers to repair their handsets by themselves. The company is partnering with iFixit, a popular online repair community, to make this program a reality. It is aimed at maximizing customer experience and minimizing e-waste. The program will roll out in the US this summer. It is unclear whether it will launch in India.
Why does this story matter?
Ever since Apple launched its own version of self-repair last November, we've been eagerly waiting for Samsung's reply. The South Korean giant took its sweet time but has finally arrived with an answer to it. Self-repair programs could prove to be the next big thing in the smartphone world as it empowers customers like never before. It also makes smartphone repairing a transparent process.
How does Samsung's self-repair program work?
Samsung customers in the US will soon be able to take product repairs into their own hands. At first, only select models—like the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy S21 series and Tab S7+—will be part of the program. They will be able to replace display assemblies, back glass, and charging ports initially, with the help of intuitive visual repair guides, genuine parts, and repair tools.
'Availability of self-repair will provide more options for sustainable solutions'
Samsung announced that the Self-Repair program will be extended to more products in the future. It aims to create "more ways for consumers to extend the lifespan of...products with premium care experiences," according to Ramon Gregory, Senior Vice President of Customer Care at Samsung Electronics America. He also said, "Availability of self-repair will provide our consumers the convenience and more options for sustainable solutions."
What are the other services provided by Samsung in US?
Apart from the upcoming self-repair program, Samsung already has a wide network of same-day service in the US that covers 80% of the country. There are over 2,000 locations under this service where customers can access mobile products. The company's in-person "We Come To You Vans" service is also a big hit among consumers. Customers can also get phones repaired using Samsung's Mail-In Service.
