Samsung and iFixit ended their partnership for self-repair, both companies revealed. According to iFixit, it will no longer be the designated third-party parts and tools distributor, quoting high parts prices and Samsung’s design. The announcement comes two years after the program’s debut.
The smartphone manufacturer responded that it is turning to a different website called SamsungParts.com, powered by Encompass.
According to Kyle Weins, iFixit CEO and co-founder, the major reason is the price of parts. The company was also unable to secure official parts for the newest Samsung devices like the Galaxy S23, Z Flip5, Z Fold5; interestingly enough, they are available at samsungparts.com.
The official press release of iFixit raised doubts about Samsung’s commitment to making repairs more accessible. The company could not procure parts to local repair shops at prices and quantities “that made business sense”.
The lengthy statement complained about how Samsung joined the partnership for PR purposes and claimed that the Korean maker never really intended to manufacture its devices with easy access for repairs.
iFixit will keep selling spudgers, screw drivers and anything else you might need to open up a phone
The independent organization will keep offering self-repair kits for Samsung phones, just like it does with Apple devices.