An internal memo, sent to Apple Store employees and Apple Authorized Service Providers, reported that the company will now use the GSMA Device Registry database to check if on an iPhone or any other device. If Apple’s internal systems indicate that the device has been “reported as missing”, the technicians must reject the repair.
Previously, Apple had policies to not provide repair services for lost or stolen devices, however, it’s only if they had the Find My feature enabled. It’s a different story if the device did not have the Find My feature enabled.
Apple aims to stop stolen iPhones from being replaced by new ones if they have never had ‘Find My’ enabled before. Adding the GSMA Device Registry database will make it harder for thieves to do so—as companies with access to this global database can easily check if a device has been registered as lost, stolen, or missing.
However, Apple might be able to accept your device’s invoice, as proof of purchase, to repair or replace your device—if you have lost access to your Apple ID. You might also be required to bring a form of personal identification, like a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID. You can read more about getting your device repair-ready on Apple’s official site.
The new policy will help give users of stolen or missing phones a peace of mind knowing that their devices won’t be resold or reused illegally. But it also serves Apple very well, in that they won’t have to give out as many brand new phones as replacements.
[ SOURCE, IMAGE SOURCE ]
