Apple has expanded its “Independent Repair Provider Program” but it doesn’t go far enough. I got excited when I read Apple’s post today that their program would be expanding and allowing
…repair providers access to genuine parts, tools, repair manuals, and diagnostics for out-of-warranty repairs
and
All participating repair providers in the program have access to free training from Apple and the same genuine parts, tools, repair manuals, and diagnostics as Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) and Apple Store locations.
Unfortunately its only open to repair providers who
… are required to be an established business, with business verification documents available for review by Apple.
and have
… commercial walk-in service location in an easily accessible location. A residential address is not acceptable as a service location.
So although this allows for more people to get their Apple devices repaired it doesn’t help the consumer (or groups like the Restart Project) get access to the tools, parts and information necessary to repair devices themselves 