Right to Repair bills have been passed in five US states meaning manufacturers are now required to sell replacement parts to independent repair companies and consumers in those locations, in addition to making their service manuals public.

Manufacturers are usually keen to keep repairs in-house so that they can deal directly with consumers and receive all of the repair profits. If individuals or other businesses wish to carry out electronics repairs themselves, as many do, they often must source the parts from recycled devices or from grey markets.

“Limited authorized channels result in inflated, high repair prices and high overturn of electronic items,” wrote the legislators who introduced the New York bill. “Another concern is the large amount of electronic waste created by the inability to affordably repair broken electronics.”

Kansas, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and New York now have the legislation, which covers more than just smartphones but any device which uses software.

If you reside in those states, you’ll have access to potentially less costly repair services, as well as the diagnostic manuals to help you carry out repairs by yourself.

Source: ANDRIOD AUTHORITY