Apple, Consumer Group Anger Over Battery Replacement 'Ddonggae Training' Ends Now

Seoul YMCA Citizen Mediation Office Statement

As controversy over reverse discrimination arises domestically regarding Apple's battery replacement cost increase, criticisms have been raised that consumer convenience is not being considered at all.

On the 24th, the Seoul YMCA Citizen Relay Room (YMCA) issued a statement titled "Apple mocks consumers with an unacceptable schedule," stating that "consumers are disadvantaged by Apple's repair policy" and urging Apple to improve its repair service policy.

The statement pointed out that the short period between Apple's price increase announcement and its implementation is unreasonable, demanded that the rights of those who booked repairs before the increase be guaranteed, and called for the provision of reasonable services.

"Consumers who squeezed through a needle's eye are being asked for 2nd and 3rd visits"

Photo by Pixabay

In January, Apple announced on its official website that starting March 1, the battery replacement cost for all iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks, including the iPhone 13, would increase by approximately 30,000 to 80,000 KRW.

The YMCA first pointed out the unreasonableness in this matter. Apple notified the price increase in January, but it takes effect from March, leaving too short a period in between, making it insufficient time for consumers to get repairs before the price hike.

Additionally, in 2021, Apple submitted a voluntary corrective plan including a 10% discount on repair costs as part of a 100 billion KRW support package after shifting advertising and free repair costs onto mobile carriers, a form of 'gapjil' (power abuse). This 10% repair discount will also end on March 28, meaning Korean consumers will experience two rounds of 'perceived price increases' within a month. This is why consumers are rushing to replace their batteries.

The YMCA explained, "Consumers are flocking to repair centers to replace batteries before the price increase. Although many want battery replacements, the number of official repair centers is limited. In Seoul, all reservations have already been fully booked." Because of this, consumers sometimes rush to Apple official repair centers for 'open runs' or wait on-site for about 3 to 6 hours.

Apple Store Jamsil Branch / Photo by Yonhap News

The organization stated, "Even if consumers succeed in booking a battery replacement and visit the repair center, they are told 'same-day repair is not possible.' They are asked to leave their phones and pick them up several days later." Furthermore, "If there is no battery stock, consumers must visit the repair center again after Apple secures the battery, leaving and retrieving their phones once more," adding, "In other words, if unlucky, a total of three visits are required."

Expected increase in repairs... "A plan to accommodate all reservations is necessary"

Photo by Pixabay

The YMCA urged, "Accept online applications collectively from consumers who want repairs before the battery replacement cost increase, prepare feasible schedules and plans, and notify consumers accordingly," and "For applications received before the battery replacement cost increase, proceed with battery replacements at the pre-increase price regardless of repair timing."

The YMCA claimed, "Apple raised repair costs twice in March alone and made battery replacement reservations as difficult as threading a needle," adding, "They are making consumers waste their trips and even subjecting them to 'dog training'." They also stated, "We will not overlook issues with Apple's AS policies and other consumer problems and will strongly respond to ensure Apple complies with Korean laws and standards."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.