If your Apple device is in need of a service, you may be doing more harm than good by getting it done cheaply.
Apple released a statement yesterday, telling users to steer clear of “nongenuine” battery services or replacements.
While it’s typically more pricey to get your device officially serviced, they advise that it could reduce possible complications as well as safety risks in the future.
The statement warns that a shoddy replacement could lead to: “overheating, fire, or injury”.
It could also lead to a whole host of performance issues including: “unexpected behaviour after installation, device software updates, or while charging”
They do say that you don’t necessarily have to go to Apple for a service, as some Independent Repair Providers have access to Apple genuine parts, tools, training, service guides, and diagnostics.
This however could leave your phone out of warranty, says the statement.
If you have a second-hand iPhone that you were told was in warranty, you can check yourself by going to Settings, then General, and then About where you will find the parts and service history of your device.
If your phone says “Genuine Apple Part” it is real, if it does not, instead saying “Unknown Part” there is a good chance that your device is not covered by the manufacturer warranty.
Why is using ‘genuine’ Apple batteries so important?
iPhones use Lithium-ion batteries which can be sensitive and flammable, if mishandled they could pose a fire risk to your device.
The statement says: “Repairs performed by untrained individuals using nongenuine parts might affect the safety of the device or might cause improper function.”
From putting in the wrong battery, to damaging your battery when servicing it, an uncertified engineer could make the device that you keep in your pocket a serious risk.
They also say: “Genuine batteries are designed to work with iOS to function properly, including to report charge levels and battery health.”
Apple has in the past admitted to deliberately slowing down the performance of batteries of older models of iPhone to encourage users to pick up a new model.
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
