Not too long ago, Apple started letting iPhone users fix some glitches on their own, and now Google has started offering a similar service to Pixel owners.
In partnership with iFixit (opens in a new tab), Google now offers parts and repair kits that address a wide range of mobile problems, from the original Pixel to the Pixel 6 range, although the selection of exact parts and compatible phones seems They vary a bit from country to country.
You can order a kit online and it will come with the appropriate replacement parts as well as the tools needed to install them. iFixit also provides detailed repair manuals for all supported fixable issues; Available solutions include replacing the screen, rear cameras, batteries, and in some cases, the charging assembly.
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Depending on the device and the issue, the cost of these repair kits can range from $22,99 / $24,99 (for a Pixel 2 camera) to $192,99 / $189,99 / AU$252,99 ( for a Pixel 6 Pro display).
At launch, the kits are available in the US, UK, Australia and EU countries where the Pixel range is available.
Of course, these repairs will not be suitable for everyone. As a general rule of thumb, we suggest calling in a professional to have your Pixel repaired unless you're sure what you're doing. Anyway, another manufacturer officially supporting the right to repair is great.
For those who are technically savvy or for some reason can't easily get their phone repaired elsewhere, this is a useful option, which should extend the life of Pixel phones, which is good for our wallets and the environment. .
Analysis: How does this compare to Apple's self-service repair?
We haven't tested any of these services ourselves, but reviewing them, it seems that Google's repair service might have some advantages over Apple's.
On the one hand, Pixel replacements often seem cheaper, although this can vary depending on the components in question and the region.
One of the main differences with these pixel fixes is that you buy the right tools for the job from iFixit, while Apple Self Service Repair only lets you rent them. The latter is likely to be more durable, but in addition to paying for the equipment rental, a large retainer (€1,100 excluding tax in the US) will be charged to your card, should you fail to return the complete kit on time.
This huge cost is because Apple ships a full suite of tools, with the same selection shipped no matter what your problem is, while iFixit only ships the tools you need for your device's specific ailment.
Another difference in favor of Google and iFixit is that, at the time of writing, Apple Self Service Repair is only available in the US, although that is about to change.
Still, given The Verge's trouble fixing your iPhone, you might want to skip it anyway, and it remains to be seen if Google's fixes will be any easier. Our advice? Get one of the best eco-friendly phone cases and hopefully your phone won't need repair in the first place.