It's About Time...

Earlier this year, iFixit, U.S. PIRG, and the Repair Association delivered over 15,000 signatures to the Federal Trade Commission, calling on the agency to take action to protect our right to fix our devices. Last week, the FTC took an important step towards protecting our Right to Repair, issuing a policy statement committing the Commission to aggressive action against manufacturers who impose unfair repair restrictions.

"The FTC sets the tone for the nation’s commerce. For too long, manufacturers have been bullying consumers and driving local repair shops out of business,” said iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens. “This landmark new policy changes that. There’s a new sheriff in town.”

The statement, unanimously approved by the commission, cites a need for greater enforcement against unlawful repair restrictions. “Restricting consumers and businesses from choosing how they repair products can substantially increase the total cost of repairs, generate harmful electronic waste, and unnecessarily increase wait times for repairs,” the statement reads. “In contrast, providing more choice in repairs can lead to lower costs, reduce e-waste by extending the useful lifespan of products, enable more timely repairs, and provide economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and local businesses.”

To read more about the FTC's decision, please visit the iFixit website for a detailed report. You can also see Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, in our documentary, Silicon Mountain!

[This information was originally posted on the iFixit website.]