Not long ago, Apple started allowing iPhone users to fix certain glitches themselves, and now Google is starting to offer a similar service to Pixel users.
In partnership with iFixit, Google now offers parts and repair kits to meet the needs of myriad mobile ailments, from the original Pixel to the Pixel 6 series — though the exact selection of parts and supported phones seems to vary by country.
You can order kits online and it will come with the relevant replacement parts, as well as the tools needed to install them. iFixit also provides detailed repair manuals for all supported fixable issues; available fixes include replacing the screen, rear camera, battery, and in some cases charging components.
Depending on the equipment and the problem, these repair kits can cost anywhere from $22.99/£24.99 (Pixel 2 camera) to $192.99/£189.99/AU$252.99 (Pixel 6 Pro screen). At launch, these kits are available in the US, UK, Australia and EU countries where the Pixel line of products is available.
Of course, these repairs aren’t for everyone—in general, we recommend having your Pixel repaired by a professional unless you’re confident in your work. Either way, another manufacturer that officially supports right-to-repair is great.
It’s a handy option for those with technical know-how or who can’t easily get their phone repaired elsewhere for whatever reason, and will keep their Pixel phones lasting longer — which is good for our wallets and the environment .
Analysis: How does this compare to Apple‘s self-service repairs?
From their perspective, Google’s repair service appears to have some advantages over Apple’s.
For one thing, replacement Pixel parts often look cheaper—though that can vary, depending on the component and region involved.
A key difference between these Pixel repairs is that you buy the related tools from iFixit, whereas Apple Self-Service Repairs just let you rent them. The latter may be more sustainable, but in addition to paying for equipment rentals, you’ll have a hefty sum on your card if you don’t return the kit in full on time. Such a huge cost is because Apple sends a whole suite of tools that will send the same selection regardless of your problem, whereas iFixit only sends the tools you need for your device’s specific ailment.
Another difference between Google and iFixit is that Apple Self Service Repair is only available in the US, although that will change. Still, given The Verge’s hassles when it comes to doing your own iPhone repairs, you might want to skip it, and it remains to be seen if Google’s will be easier.
>>>>>>>>>>>Phone battery