Over the past few years, EU has been at the forefront of sustainable and eco-friendly policies for consumer products.

Yesterday, the EU parliament officially passed the “right to repair“ directive, which aims to increase a product’s lifecycle. This would warrant a number of changes in how consumer products like smartphones are serviced and repaired throughout its life.

Here’s what you need to know about the “right to repair“ directive in 5 points.

The rules will take effect after approval by the Council and publication in the EU Official Journal, with EU members having two years to adopt them as law.

1. Extended Warranty After Repairs: The right-to-repair rules state that manufacturers should extend a product’s warranty by one year if it is repaired while still under the initial warranty.
2. Mandatory Repairs and Reasonable Prices: Even after the warranty expires, companies must repair common household products at a “reasonable” price to encourage repairs over replacements. This includes products like smartphones, TVs, washing machines, and vacuum cleaners.
3. Availability of Parts and Tools: Manufacturers are required to provide spare parts and tools necessary for repairs. They are also prohibited from using contractual clauses or techniques that obstruct repairs.
4. Third-Party Repairs and Parts: The rules prevent manufacturers from blocking the use of 3D-printed or second-hand parts by independent repair shops. They cannot refuse repairs due to economic reasons or previous repairs by third parties.
5. Local Repair Shop Finder: An online platform will be launched to help customers find local repair shops, sellers of used products, and buyers for defective items.

OnePlus has a new fancy Watch 2 Edition in the UK and the EU. The edition, known as the OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue, draws inspiration from Scandinavian design and is the only one with a blue chronograph bezel.

It features a light grey casing with a blue leather band with white stitching. Personally, I think this edition looks quite classy, but the real question is whether it’s worth the €50 premium over the regular edition.

More photos and details in our story here.

Heard of the Swedish EV brand Polestar? They have launched a new smartphone!

Geely Holdings is in the process of taking Polestar’s ownership from Volvo in 2024. Polestar has been struggling lately, and Volvo reportedly wants to hand over its responsibility to its parent company (yes, Geely owns Volvo too), which could help revive the brand.

Well, Geely’s first line of action seems to be releasing a Polestar branded smartphone in the Chinese market.

Yesterday, Polestar announced its first smartphone, called simply the Polestar Phone. This device is basically a clone of the Meizu 21 Pro. If you remember, Geely took over majority ownership of Meizu back in 2022, so this clearly was part of its long term plan.

While the specs are exactly the same as the Meizu 21 Pro, the biggest difference on the Polestar Phone is in the UI. It runs on the Polestar Phone OS, which is essentially a customized version of Flyme OS, featuring design elements similar to those found in Polestar electric vehicles’ interfaces.

The phone has AI features such as image search, image production, and text summarization. It also includes the Polestar Link software, which allows customers to control and monitor their Polestar electric vehicles. This is especially useful in China, where Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.

More details on the Polestar Phone here.

DEAL ALERT: Pixel 7 Pro retails for an exciting price of $530; Moto Razr+ available for $699

Despite increased US restrictions on the export of advanced Nvidia AI chips to China, ten Chinese entities with government affiliations were able to obtain these AI chips embedded in server products from major suppliers such as Super Micro Computer Inc., Dell Technologies Inc., and Gigabyte Technology.

Nvidia has stated that the products specified in the tenders were exported and available before the restrictions were imposed, asserting that the purchases don’t indicate violations of export control rules. However, experts suggest that chips could have been diverted to China without the manufacturers’ knowledge due to limited visibility into downstream supply chains.

More details on this story here.

More Headlines Worth Reading!

Redmi Pad SE with 11″ LCD display, Snapdragon 680 processor & an affordable price tag launched in India

Redmi has just launched a new affordable tablet in the Indian market called the Redmi Pad SE. This new tablet is the successor of the Redmi Pad, which launched back in October 2022.

More details can be found in our launch story here.

If you are wondering whether the Redmi Pad SE is better than the regular Pad – here’s what we think.

Canon’s new VR headset brings live concerts to your living room

Canon is breaking new ground in the realm of virtual reality with the development of a hybrid display VR headset designed to revolutionize music experiences. This new technology will transport users who are sitting in their living room, into the heart of live concert halls, redefining the way we enjoy live performances.

More details are here.

Apple acquires Paris based AI startup Datakalab, likely for on-device model for iPhone 16

Apple is reportedly taking a different approach to generative AI. While the generative AI features on devices are currently backed by server-side large language models, Apple wants to run LLMs on-devices. It will help them ensure user privacy since user data does not have to leave the iPhones and reach servers, that can be shared.

However, there’s only so much that can be done with on-device models. Apple needs to develop a decently capable yet power-efficient model. But doing so on their own will require time. And this is exactly where the acquisition of French startup Datakalab becomes relevant.

More details here!

Xiaomi CEO aims to sell more than 100,000 Xiaomi SU7 cars by 2024

Xiaomi Auto began the delivery of its highly anticipated electric car, the SU7 earlier this month. The delivery ceremony was held at the Xiaomi Automobile Factory in Yizhuang, Beijing, where Xiaomi’s founder and CEO Lei Jun opened the doors of each SU7 car and handed them over to their owners. The company planned to sell only 5000 units globally in the first batch.

But the company’s most recent sales target sounds quite ambitious.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9: What you need to know about the next-gen wearable

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is expected to be the company’s next gen wearable product. The Chinese tech giant unveiled the Smart Band 8 back in 2023, and it appears that its successor is set to launch soon. We have covered the upcoming smart band recently, so here’s what to expect from the Xiaomi Smart Band 9.

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The post GC Daily: EU’s Right to Repair Bill in 5 Points, EV brand Polestar has an AI Phone appeared first on Gizmochina.

On February 8, 2024, the Oregon State Legislature introduced a bill, SB 1596, that challenges the common practice of component encryption by manufacturers like Apple. This bill stands out from others in states like California by requiring companies to provide the needed documentation, tools, and parts for repairs. It also bans the encryption of components that limit third-party repairs and the use of non-original parts.

Apple Clashes With New Right-to-Repair Legislation

Apple, a major supporter of component encryption, strongly opposes this bill. The company argues that encrypting components helps make repairs more convenient and keeps devices and personal data secure. John Perry, a senior member of Apple’s security design team, says that the legislation would force manufacturers to allow parts from unknown sources, risking device security.

During the legislative hearings, a notable moment came from a video testimony by cybersecurity expert Tarah Wheeler, who highlighted Apple’s firm stance on maintaining control over device repairs. This perspective aligns with Apple’s broader argument that the bill could dilute the security and integrity of device ecosystems by opening the door to third-party components and repair services not vetted by the original manufacturers.

Apple has also pointed to recent updates in its repair processes as evidence of its efforts to accommodate consumer needs for more accessible repair options. These updates have streamlined the process for replacing components, eliminating the need for customers to directly engage with Apple support for such activities.

The debate centers around the balance between consumer rights to repair and the security and integrity of devices. Apple has historically utilized component encryption to prevent the use of unauthorized parts, citing security concerns. For instance, replacing a screen with a non-Apple part could lead to the disabling of features like Face ID. While replacing the battery can trigger a “Service” message and disable the battery health monitoring feature in the settings.

SB 1596 represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion around right-to-repair legislation, highlighting the tension between consumer advocacy for more open repair ecosystems and manufacturers’ concerns over security and proprietary control. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, the tech industry and consumers alike will be watching closely to see how this balance is navigated.

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(Via)

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Apple has decided to back the Right to Repair bill in the US. Despite its history against repair accessibility, the company is endorsing the bill from Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman. So here are all the details.

Apple makes a 180 on Right to Repair

According to iFixit, the Cupertino based giant is taking a U-turn regarding the Right to Repair bill. The company as even sent out letters to legislators in the state, asking them to pass the Senate Bill 244. If this bill gets approved, then tech companies would be required to provide consumers and third-party repair service providers the repair diagnostics and parts needed to fix their products.

Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, stated that Apple’s endorsement of the bill is a “watershed moment for consumer rights.” He further added that the “Berlin Wall of tech repair monopolies is starting to crumble, brick by brick”. The bill’s passing could also lead to the market being more competitive and repair costs falling. The bill will also limit the cost of repair products between 50 to 100 US Dollars, which should be available for at least three years after being manufactured.

On the other hand, the repair materials for products over 100 US Dollars will need to be available for at least seven years. Companies that violate this law will be fined 1,000 US Dollars per day after their first violation, 2,000 US Dollars for their second violation, and 5,000 US Dollars per day for future violations.

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(Via)

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The complexity of repairing the iPhone 14 Pro Max has come into the spotlight after a YouTuber’s painful experience while attempting to repair the device. According to Hugh Jeffreys, the teardown of the iPhone 14 Pro Max took almost four and a half hours, highlighting the difficulties that arise when attempting to repair the most expensive iPhone model in the market.

During the teardown, Jeffreys mentioned that while Apple has made improvements in the scope of repairing iPhone 14 and its variants, the same hasn’t been implemented on the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The teardown revealed that no single kind of screw holds the iPhone 14 Pro Max together and that different tiny components need to be removed and stored carefully. Additionally, the device’s software did not recognize the new display as genuine, which further complicated the process.

The video highlights the importance of the right to repair one’s smartphone and other technological devices. While major companies like Apple and Microsoft claim to support this right, the difficulty in repairing the iPhone 14 Pro Max shows that more needs to be done. Jeffreys’ experience emphasizes the need for companies to make repairing devices easier for users, as the intricate and complicated process can lead to further damage or even render the device unusable.

The video has sparked discussions among tech enthusiasts and consumers about the scope of repairing devices and the level of support that companies provide to users. As the cost of devices continues to rise, it’s essential that users have the right to repair their devices easily and without risking further damage.

Companies need to take steps to make repairing devices easier and more accessible for users to ensure that they can get the most out of their devices without incurring exorbitant costs.

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In France, the global fight for the right-to-repair received a defining boost two years ago with the implementation of a mandate that required electronics and appliance manufacturers to provide their customers with repairability scores from 1 to 10, with 10 being the easiest to repair. This provides consumers with important information if they decide whether to fix their products themselves or hire someone to do it. Furthermore, smartphone manufacturers must now publish detailed documentation for their products, specifically repair manuals. The Pixel 6a manual was released last year in 2022. As per the latest reports, Google has published instructions for the repair of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro.

The support page containing the repair manuals is restricted to users outside of France. However, those who are interested can bypass the restriction by using a VPN. It’s worth noting that these geographical restrictions were not present when the Pixel 6a manual was released last year. Customers in the US and Canada can take advantage of Google’s partnership with uBreakiFix for out-of-warranty and in-warranty Pixel repairs, and customers in other regions can find authorized repair partners from this Google support page.

In April 2022, Google introduced its self-repair program for users in the US, UK, Australia, and Europe, allowing Pixel owners to order authentic device parts from iFixit. Fortunately for Pixel 7 series owners, the program was extended to the Pixel 7 lineup devices last month. It is worth noting that inexperienced users and beginners are advised not to attempt repairs due to the potential risks.

Despite efforts by tech companies to introduce concessions into right-to-repair bills, the fight for the publication of repair manuals without requiring the purchase of parts continues in regions where new laws are being considered. Other smartphone manufacturers such as Apple and Samsung are also offering self-repair services for their customers. Nonetheless, kudos to France for taking a bold step in support of consumer rights.

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With the European Union strongly pushing the right to repair movement, Apple had recently announced its Self Service Repair program in the US. Now, it seems that other brands might be following suit with a similar service as Xiaomi could be launching a new repair program for the Indian market.

𝗪𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲.
For us, it's always been about 𝗬𝗼𝘂
It's been about 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 experience with us.
We've always strived to put 𝗬𝗼𝘂 first.
And now, we're taking things a notch higher, just for 𝗬𝗼𝘂.
𝗪𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲.

Stay tuned! pic.twitter.com/dBkTbT9o9q

— Xiaomi India (@XiaomiIndia) November 23, 2021

For those unaware, Apple had launched a new program that will allow users to repair some of their products by themselves, using tools and parts officially provided by the Cupertino based brand. And earlier this week, Xiaomi India had also announced a service program through their official Twitter handle. In the social media post, the Chinese tech giant simply shared “Services Simplified,” with a caption stating that “We Care. For us, it’s always been about You It’s been about Your experience with us. We’ve always strived to put You first. And now, we’re taking things a notch higher, just for You. We Care.”

While this information reveals practically nothing about the service itself, the company might be planning on offering a simplified program that might make repairs and related services simpler. Furthermore, this could even include the “self service” aspect similar to Apple’s recent program. Keep in mind that this is just an educated guess based on the timing of both announcements so take it with a pinch of salt for now.

Back in August, we had also reported on the brand filing for a Xiaomi Mi Care repair service trademark. Previously, this particular program had only been available in its home market of China. Thus, the trademark implied that the service could be launching in overseas market as well. India is a key region for the Chinese brand, so it won’t be a surprise if the program in question makes its appearance in the country. So stay tuned for more updates regarding this matter.

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Apple gets criticized for actively trying users to stop getting their products repaired and for having absurd policies like disabling Face ID when the screen is repaired or replaced by someone other than Apple.

But now, in a step towards being more do-it-yourself repair friendly, Apple has launched a new Self Service Repair program that will enable users to repair some products themself using official Apple parts and tools.

This new repair option will be available to the users in the United States from early 2022 and is expected to be rolled in other regions later the same yet. Initially, the program will offer resources to fix iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 and soon after that, the company will add support for M1-powered Mac devices.

It has been revealed that in the first phase of the Self Service Repair program, Apple will be focusing on the core components likes the battery, camera, and display, while the other parts will be eligible later. So far, the company has not revealed how much the parts would cost but will be offering credit to customers who return used parts for recycling.

Apple adds that this program is for people with experience in repairing electronics and warns that the vast majority of people are better off getting service from professionals, whether at Apple stores or authorized providers.

The development comes at a time when the White House, the Federal Trade Commission, and multiple states in the United States have backed the right-to-repair measures that could force Apple and other companies to allow customer maintenance.

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