Most major tech manufacturers make phones, laptops, and other devices difficult to repair on purpose. Fortunately, President Biden recently signed an executive order promoting competition in the American economy. Among other provisions, this order restricts manufacturers’ ability to prohibit self-repairs or repairs by a third party. If you need computer or phone repairs, the new right-to-repair rules can reduce costs and extend the life of your device.

What is the Right-to-Repair?

Many manufacturers intentionally make repairs more difficult by requiring specialized tools or diagnostic software. They restrict access to this equipment, repair manuals, and instructions, so consumers have to return to the manufacturer for repairs. This often means paying higher fees, so many consumers simply replace a device that could have been fixed.

Right-to-repair rules give consumers choices about fixing their own devices. Depending on your skill level, you may choose to replace a broken screen or battery yourself or take the device to a third party. Competition among independent phone repair shops should drive prices down and allow you to get the most out of your device.

How the Executive Order Can Help

While the President’s executive order won’t have immediate results, it signals tech manufacturers that regulations are on the way. The order gives the FTC the authority to issue a policy statement detailing guidelines for American tech companies. The FTC is expected to hold a commission meeting on July 21 to work out the framework of the statement.

Policy statements aren’t rules, but they can guide enforcement action in the future. Most importantly, manufacturers will likely begin taking steps to comply now to avoid legal issues later, so the cost of phone repairs may begin dropping before the FTC issues a final ruling.

If your phone or computer screen is cracked or your computer is running slow, bring it to our team at Experimax of Huntington Beach. Our technicians are trained and certified to properly complete computer, laptop, and phone repairs at affordable prices. 
Visit our store at 18597 Brookhurst Street in Fountain Valley, CA, or call (714) 716-5005 for more information.

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