In an announcement made today, Apple revealed that starting later this year, customers and independent repair shops will have the option to repair certain iPhones using used genuine Apple parts. This move comes in response to criticism over Apple's controversial "parts pairing" process and a recent law passed in Oregon that intends to ban Apple from using this process for devices manufactured after January 1, 2025.

John Ternus, Apple's hardware engineering chief, addressed the concerns surrounding "parts pairing" in an interview with TechCrunch. Ternus clarified that Apple does not block third-party parts from functioning in iPhones, despite the negative connotation associated with the term "parts pairing." Instead, the company aims to authenticate the installed parts to ensure they are genuine Apple components and to enable proper calibration.

Ternus stated that while most third-party parts can still work in iPhones, there are exceptions when it comes to security-related features like Face ID and Touch ID. According to Ternus, the criticality of security in these components, which hold significant personal information, prevents the use of third-party modules. Apple prioritizes the safety and performance of these key security functions.

To address transparency concerns, Apple alerts customers if an iPhone has been repaired using non-genuine Apple parts. The "Parts and Service History" section in the Settings app under General → About shows whether non-genuine parts have been installed, providing consumers with the necessary information about their device's repair history.

Ternus emphasized the importance of transparency, particularly for the large number of second- or third-hand iPhones in use. By disclosing repair information, including the parts used, customers can make informed decisions, especially when purchasing devices at lower price points.

In addition to the current transparency measures, Apple plans to expand the "Parts and Service History" section to indicate whether a used part is a genuine Apple component later this year.

Apple's decision to allow the use of used genuine parts in repairs aims to address concerns surrounding third-party repairs, where cheaper aftermarket parts are sometimes substituted for original components. While Apple does not prevent third-party repairs, the company wants to ensure that consumers can differentiate between "Apple Parts" and non-genuine components.

The discussion surrounding the acceptability of cheap aftermarket parts in critical, security components remains contentious. Apple believes that maintaining the authenticity and quality of its devices requires controlling the parts used, particularly for security features like Face ID.

The news of Apple's announcement brings relief to those who prioritize using genuine parts in their devices. By providing clear information about repairs and parts used, Apple aims to protect consumers from purchasing devices that may contain knock-off components. The company's commitment to the security and performance of its products remains at the forefront of its repair processes.

As Apple moves forward with its plans to allow for repairs with used genuine parts, the debate around third-party repairs, parts authenticity, and device security continues to evolve.