How Big Tech Rewrote the Nation’s First Cell Phone Repair Law

When it comes to technology, the law hasn’t always kept up with the times. Until recently, many states had laws on the books that stipulated that any person or company who wanted to repair a cell phone had to have the technical expertise to do so and be certified by the original device manufacturer. That meant third-party shops, many of which are small businesses, could not compete with larger companies and were put at a major disadvantage. Big tech companies had lobbied hard for such a law in order to protect their profits and keep competition out of the market.

However, the tide seems to be changing. A handful of states, including Nebraska and Washington, have introduced legislation to update their cell phone repair laws to allow for third-party shops to compete with larger companies. The updated laws grant third-party shops the ability to repair phones as long as they meet certain qualifications—including having the necessary tools and training to do so—and pass a related certification exam.

The big tech companies have not been happy with the new laws. They know that, by expanding the number of people and businesses who can repair cell phones, they will lose some of their market share. This has resulted in the companies intensifying their lobbying efforts, trying to dilute the legislation and push for more restrictions on those who can repair cell phones.

In addition, some of the big tech companies have gone even further, introducing their own “take-apart” policies and repair provisions. Apple, for example, recently changed its policy to require all parts used in repairs to come directly from the company. This means they can price-gouge customers and disadvantage their competitors, as third-party shops will be unable to access or purchase the OEM parts and offer competitive prices.

It is clear that the big tech companies want to maintain their unfair advantage over their competitors and the consumer. With their legislative and policy antics, they are not only hiding their bottom line, but also stifling competition and innovation. Fortunately, a few states have taken a stand against these tactics, but much more needs to be done for a true level playing field. It’s up to consumers to make their voices heard, demand better repair laws, and encourage their states to enact them. The power to fix our nation’s broken cell phone repair laws is in our hands.