Midwest Phone Lab

It looks like Apple has built yet another arbitrary restriction into their new phones designed to halt their customers' ability to obtain independent repair for devices they own. As of the release of iOS 13, We will likely no longer be able to offer battery replacements for the affected models (iPhones XR, XS, and XS Max.)
When a company that manufactures and sells devices is allowed to also be the only people able to repair them or replace consumables like batteries, it is a clear conflict of interest. Apple needs to hear from their customers that this is not acceptable.

Apple Is Locking iPhone Batteries to Discourage Repair By activating a software lock on newer iPhones, Apple is announcing a drastic new policy: only Apple batteries go in iPhones, and only they can install them.

An Open Letter to the FTC on Google’s Banning of Repair Business Ads While the FTC prepares to hold a workshop investigating the ways manufacturers restrict third-party repair, we have concerns about a different restriction:

Sadly, it's no joke that manufacturers do everything they can to shut down repair options for their devices. Repair is Green, but it's not profitable for companies like Microsoft and Apple to let you get your devices fixed. They make their money by selling replacements. The conflict of interest created when 3rd party repair is removed from the equation isn't good for anyone (except the companies who benefit from said conflict of interest)

It is important for all of us as consumers to consider the repairability of a device when making the decision to purchase.

The Most Common Ways Manufacturers Prevent You From Repairing Your Devices Your phone and laptop are not immortal. One day, something will break. Device manufacturers want you to buy a new device when that happens, instead of repairing the device you already have—and it shows in the design.

It is nearly impossible to buy a smart phone that is ethically produced. This makes the need for open repair all the more important. Major companies push upgrades rather than repair and use litigation or built in obsolescence to discourage independent businesses from fixing your devices. Smart phone companies have an ethical responsibility to allow customers to fix their own devices, or at least introduce transparency into the repair process. This means it is important for companies to start being honest when something can be fixed rather than pushing an upgrade and, also, that they start allowing customers to use independent technicians who don't have a conflict of interest. It behooves consumers of electronic devices to look at repair options in order to get the most out of their phones rather than jump on every new upgrade that is pushed on them. This helps create a more sustainable environment. It is up to the companies to apply ethical manufacturing and labor practices, and it is up to the consumers of their products to demand that they do so. There is almost nothing that CAN'T be repaired. Please consider repair or buying used as an alternative to yearly upgrades. This helps stop e-waste and is less supportive of systemic labor abuse and the unethical mining of resources.

You can’t buy an ethical smartphone today There's no such thing as an 'ethical smartphone'. At least, not right now.

It's heckin' cold outside!
Due to weather conditions, we will be operating by appointment only today through Wednesday the 30th.
Our normal store hours will resume on Thursday the 31st.

We can't help you stay warm, but we can help you stay connected. Mention this post for 10% off on all iPhone screen and battery repairs on Thursday January 31st through Friday February 1st.

To book an appointment online, visit us at www.midwestphonelab.com

To schedule a drop-off or pick-up or for any questions you can get in touch with us at (608) 572-7090 or email us at [email protected]

Cell phone repair, Tablet repair, iPhone, iPad & Samsung Repairs. Battery replacement in Madison Wisconsin Cell phone, tablet, battery replacement. iPhone, iPad, Samsung, Microsoft Surface and Chrome book repairs. Cracked glass, broken LCD, and more. Full-service repairs and a lifetime warranty. Madison WI