2024-04-23 22:58:53
O European Union parliament approved a large right to repair law in the bloc countries. The measure promises to make device repairs more financially attractive to consumers, as well as helping the environment and discouraging the premature disposal of consumer goods.
Among the provisions provided for by law is the guarantee that manufacturers must provide “timely and economical” repair services to consumers — including providing an additional year of warranty to anyone who chooses to repair their device within two years of purchase.
The repair obligation also extends to the period after the legal warranty and, during the repair, consumers may choose to borrow a device or even receive a refurbished device as an alternative if the manufacturer is unable to carry out the repair.
In addition to the expectation that consumers will also be able to receive relevant information to help them evaluate and compare repair services, it was determined to create an online platform to help them easily find local repair shops, refurbished stores or “refreshing cafes”.
The law also requires manufacturers to provide replacement parts and tools at a reasonable price, as well as prohibits trickery that obstructs repairs — such as preventing the use of second-hand and/or 3D-printed parts or refusing to repair a product beforehand. repaired by someone else.
These two rules specifically go against Apple’s support operating model, as the company does not provide assistance to devices already repaired “without authorization”, as well as prohibiting the use of non-original parts — including those with software limitations.
The new law was approved with the positive votes of 584 parliamentarians, against just 3 votes against. Also extending to household items (such as washing machines and vacuum cleaners), the measures must be implemented by the bloc’s countries within 2 years.
via PCMag
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