Apple may soon be able to repair things like the Face ID sensors and even cracked rear glass on the iPhone 12 models without needing replacing the device. This comes as MacRumors obtained an internal memo sent to Apple Authorised Service Providers that informed them of a new same-unit repair method for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini.
The report states that the new “iPhone Rear System” part is meant to fix problems relating to the iPhone 12’s logic board, MagSafe charging coil, Taptic Engine and Face ID system. The repair includes all the components in the rear half of an iPhone 12 but does not include the display and rear camera.
One possible reason why Apple is introducing this new method is that the rear glass was notoriously very difficult to replace. In its iPhone 12 teardown, iFixit found that a repair technician would need to remove every component and replace the entire chassis. You can see how difficult it is to remove the rear glass in the video below.
This method of repair marks a departure from Apple’s past repair policies and could make for faster and more efficient service. Currently, iPhone users that send their devices in for repair would need to wait several days before receiving a replacement unit.
Apple also said this move was part of its ongoing commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of every product it sells.
According to Apple, the new repair method will be available from 23 February on wards in all countries where the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 are sold. However, the higher-end iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max are not eligible for same-unit repairs for now.
