Every year, Apple releases a new phone into the market with a stylish launch event introducing the world to their latest innovation. So far, the company has had a good run, selling millions of units and maintaining its stellar reputation as a premium smartphone provider.
But, occasionally, things don't go as expected and some of their phones start developing issues. Even though there's never been a recall on a full series of phones, there have been instances where a batch of iPhones was recalled for repairs.
Being a dominant player in the smartphone market, it's easy to see why Apple takes such concerns seriously. In New Zealand, for example, Apple has the largest market share at 38.8%. That means most New Zealanders opt for an iPhone for their communication, day-to-day activities, and even entertainment. Whether streaming a Netflix film, enjoying Candy Crush, or playing at online casinos NZ, most people enjoy using an iPhone.
So, any defect on one of their phones can easily shake the company's reputation and that's why the following iPhones were recalled for repairs and fixes.
1. iPhone 6s and 6s Plus
The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus were released in September 2015 and were off to a great start. The models introduced us to the first-ever 3D touch feature and added other awesome new features like live photos and an improved 12-megapixel camera that could record a 4K video.
However, a few years later, users started experiencing problems powering on the device. Apple noted this issue and quietly included the devices in its service programs list. The repair program highlighted that phones made between October 2018 and August 2019 had the problem and offered a step-by-step program to fix them.
Users could visit the site and use the Apple serial number checker to confirm whether their device was one of the phones that needed repairs. Those eligible could visit the nearest Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider for repairs. If you had fixed the phone with your money, users could contact Apple for a refund.
2. iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro
The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro were launched in October 2020 and represented a step forward to Apple's modern phone designs. Some of the iconic features introduced by the models were the flat-edge design, ceramic shield glass, a super retina XDR OLED display, and 5G connectivity.
However, as popular as this model was, it did have its challenges. There were units of the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro that started having sound issues and users couldn't make or receive calls. Apple mentioned that there was a component on the receiver module that had failed and they would repair the phones for free.
Devices affected were those made between October 2020 and April 2021, and the same repair service program applied. However, something was different this time. Instead of confirming whether your device was eligible through the serial number checker, users had to contact Apple Support directly.
Apple also added that the free repair didn't include other phone damages like a cracked screen, which could come at an extra cost.
3. iPhone 14 Plus
The latest phone added to Apple's service program list is the iPhone 14 Plus. The phone was released in September 2022 and had several new innovative features like a larger 6.7-inch display, satellite-based Emergency SOS, and a crash detection system.
One year later, users started experiencing issues with the rear camera. According to Apple, a "very small percentage" of devices would show no rear camera preview. The models were those sold between April 2023 and April 2024 and were eligible for a free repair. Users had to book an appointment at any Apple Retail Store, go to an Apple Authorized Service Provider, or reach out to Apple Support for mail-in service through the Apple Repair Center.
The program is still active and covers iPhone 14 Plus devices within three years after the first retail sale of the phone. Also, users who fixed the camera issue can ask for a refund by contacting Apple Support.
The iPhone 14 Plus is the latest model of the smartphone series to be added to the list. If you think your iPhone has an issue that you've noticed, check out the Apple service program to find out whether it's eligible for a free repair.
Special Content
