Apple has rolled out a repair programme for its iPhone 14 Plus, offering free fixes to customers experiencing a specific rear camera issue. The programme is targeted at a small subset of iPhone 14 Plus devices manufactured between April 2023 and April 2024, which have been reported to occasionally encounter problems displaying the rear camera preview.
What’s The iPhone 14 Plus Camera Issue?
Apple notes that only a limited number of iPhone 14 Plus models are affected by this issue, specifically when trying to use the rear camera. Affected users may notice that the camera’s preview feature fails to display correctly, preventing a seamless photo experience.
How Will Apple’s Repair Programme Work?
Apple encourages customers who are encountering this problem to seek assistance through one of its retail stores, an authorised service provider, or by opting for the mail-in service option available on its website.
To streamline the process, Apple has provided a serial number checker on its support page, allowing users to verify their device’s eligibility for free repair. If the device qualifies, Apple will cover the repair costs for up to three years from the original purchase date, ensuring owners can enjoy the full lifespan of their device without additional expenses.
This repair programme, however, is specifically for the iPhone 14 Plus model. No other iPhone models, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, or iPhone 14 Pro Max, are eligible for this service. Customers who have previously encountered this issue and paid for repairs out of pocket may contact Apple to request a refund for their expenses, making the programme retroactive for those who have already sought solutions.
Which iPhone 14 Plus Models Will Qualify?
To qualify for this programme, the device must not have any additional damage that could affect the repair process, such as a cracked back glass or significant wear and tear. If other damages are found, customers may incur additional costs for those separate repairs. Apple advises users to back up their devices to either iCloud or a computer before bringing in their phones for service, as a precaution against data loss.
The company also notes that repairs may be restricted to the region or country where the device was initially purchased, aligning with Apple’s typical repair policies. Additionally, while this programme provides a free solution for the camera preview problem, it does not extend the standard warranty coverage for the iPhone 14 Plus.
This marks Apple’s first large-scale iPhone service programme since 2021, when the company addressed earpiece speaker malfunctions in certain iPhone 12 models. The company’s commitment to supporting users through targeted repair initiatives underscores its dedication to device quality and customer satisfaction.
