For years, a cracked iPad screen or a faulty component meant one thing at the Apple Store: a costly, full-unit replacement. That frustrating experience for customers is finally set to change. According to a report from French publication iGeneration, Apple is preparing to roll out genuine in-store repair services for its iPad lineup by the end of 2025, a first for the popular tablet.

The move signals a major shift in how Apple handles iPad hardware issues, moving away from a system of complete swaps to a more sustainable and consumer-friendly repair model. The initial rollout is expected to begin in September and will see approximately 30 Apple Stores, primarily in the United States, equipped with the tools and trained technicians to perform certain repairs on-site.

How Will Apple’s New iPad Repair Policy Work?

Currently, when an iPad is brought into an Apple Store with a hardware problem, even a minor one, the standard procedure is to offer a complete unit replacement, often at a significant out-of-warranty cost. The customer pays a high initial fee, and their damaged device is shipped off to a centralized repair center. While the final charge is sometimes adjusted downward after the repair center only replaces the broken part, customers are left in the dark about the true cost at the time of service.

The new system will overhaul this opaque process. Much like repairs for iPhones and Macs, customers will receive an exact, upfront quote for the specific repair needed before any work begins. This transparency will allow users to make informed financial decisions and could lead to substantial savings for those with minor issues like a bad speaker or a broken rear camera, avoiding the price of a full-unit swap.

This initiative aligns with Apple’s broader push toward right-to-repair principles. Earlier this year, the company announced it would expand its Self Service Repair program to include iPads, allowing customers with technical expertise to order genuine parts and manuals to fix their own devices.

A Sustainable and Customer-Centric Shift

Industry analysts see this as a positive step on multiple fronts. “Offering in-store repairs is a win-win,” says a consumer electronics analyst. “It reduces electronic waste by fixing devices instead of discarding them, and it significantly improves the customer experience by providing cost certainty and faster turnaround times.” The environmental benefit is clear, as repairing a single component has a far smaller carbon footprint than manufacturing and shipping an entirely new iPad.

The report suggests the program will start with simpler repairs, likely including display and battery replacements, before potentially expanding to more complex internal fixes. This phased approach allows Apple to train its Genius Bar technicians thoroughly and ensure a high quality of service from the start.

This long-awaited change marks a significant evolution in Apple’s service philosophy, finally bringing the iPad in line with other products and giving millions of users a more affordable and sustainable path to fixing their devices. For the latest on repair options, check your iPad’s service coverage directly on Apple’s official website.

Must Know

When will Apple start repairing iPads in stores?
According to the report from iGeneration, the program is set to begin a rollout in September 2025. A wider launch to approximately 30 stores is expected by the end of the year.

Will iPad repairs be cheaper now?
For many customers, yes. Repairs for specific components like a screen or battery are expected to be significantly less expensive than the current flat-rate fee for a full-unit replacement, which is often the maximum out-of-warranty cost.

What iPad models will be eligible for in-store repair?
The report did not specify which models will be included. It is likely the program will focus on newer and more popular iPad models initially.

Can I still get a full unit replacement?
The current system of full-unit replacements will likely remain an option for devices with catastrophic damage or issues that are too complex for an in-store technician to handle.

Does this relate to the Self Service Repair program?
Yes, both initiatives are part of Apple’s broader strategy to expand repair options. The Self Service Repair program, which is expanding to include iPads, is designed for individuals who wish to perform their own repairs, while the in-store service is for those who prefer Apple-certified technicians to do the work.