Samsung is launching a repair program in South Korea that allows consumers to repair their Galaxy smartphones themselves.
With this repair program, Samsung is following Apple, which previously introduced similar services in the US and Europe. As a result, consumers no longer have to visit the store to have their telephone repaired. The idea is that consumers are no longer dependent on the manufacturer for their device to carry out the necessary repair. This should also reduce the cost of a repair. Samsung’s repair program goes beyond smartphones, the South Korean company writes in a press release.
From now on, South Koreans can repair Galaxy Book laptops and televisions independently in addition to Galaxy S smartphones. However, the repair program initially supports a limited selection of products. Specifically, it concerns the Galaxy S20, S21 and Galaxy S22 series, the Galaxy Book Pro (15.6-inch) and three 80-inch televisions. The repairs are also limited to the most common problems. On smartphones, it specifically concerns replacing the USB-C charging port, the display and the (glass) back.
Samsung says it provides consumers with all the necessary tools. Furthermore, a manual and video of the repair are always provided. It is unknown which tools Samsung supplies and whether the company charges for this. Apple’s Self Service repair program requires customers to rent or purchase the necessary tools. Those tools are necessary, among other things, to loosen the glue between the screen and the housing.
No Apple interference
Customers who have completed a repair can optimize the part via the ‘Self-repair’ app. The Samsung Members app can also be used to check whether there is an abnormality in the operation of the part. Unlike Apple, Samsung’s customers do not have to call to verify their repair.
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What is the same is the return tax that both companies charge for old components. Samsung reports that customers will receive the eco-deposit back when the parts are returned. The press release does not mention exact amounts of that deposit.
Not yet in Europe
For now, Samsung is limiting the repair program to South Korea. Nevertheless, it is a first step towards launching a similar service elsewhere in the world. Given that Apple is active in Europe with such a repair service, a similar move by the Koreans would not surprise us.
