iPhone XR instead of iPhone 8: Apple changes exchange policy on long repairs

In the developed world, Apple offers its customers a loaner model of iPhone from its swap meet when they return their primary phone for repair at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorised Service Provider. The model currently being loaned out is the iPhone 8.

According to an internal memo sent out to Apple Store employees and certified technicians, Apple will soon provide iPhone XR devices to customers when they have to wait a long time for iPhone repairs.

Currently, if you qualify for a loaner iPhone, Apple will provide you with the iPhone 8 - outdated by today's standards, as it still features a 4.7-inch display with a Home button and an A11 Bionic chip. In comparison, the iPhone XR offers more modern features like Face ID, a 6.1-inch edge-to-edge display, eSIM support and a faster A12 Bionic chip.

It's worth noting that not every customer will be able to get a loaner device, as the company takes into account how long it will take to repair the user's phone. For those who will get a loaner iPhone, Apple states that customers must return the device no more than 14 days after the repaired iPhone is ready for pickup.

iPhone XR will be available for replacement at Apple Stores and authorized vendors starting later this week in the U.S. and "other select regions." A full and disappointing list of "select regions" can be seen at on Apple's website.

Source: macrumors

Illustration: apple