Apple's self-repair program has made great strides over the past few years, making it easier to repair devices without having to visit an Apple Store. All necessary parts, tools, and instructions can be purchased or rented from Apple's self-service repair store. Now, months after its release, the iPhone 16 has been added to this program.

Apple has now added self-service repair support for the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. So if something has already happened to your shiny new iPhone, whether it's bad luck or your own stupidity, you now have even more options for fixing the problem.

The parts offered include replacement displays, back glass, cameras, speakers, and even batteries. All are supplied directly from Apple suppliers, so you won't run into the compatibility issues that can occur with third-party parts. That said, Apple is making incremental strides to ensure that if you do go that route, it won't completely screw you up.

Self-repair is a fairly tricky process; the iPhone 16 series is easier to repair than before, but still requires patience and skill. Especially if you have a Pro model, which has a traditional battery with adhesive strips instead of the new electrically removable power cells.

Depending on the problem, this may be the work of an expert, such as an authorized Apple repair technician or someone from your local cell phone repair store. In addition, if you have Apple Care Plus, you can get your phone repaired for a fraction of the usual cost; those who thought self-repair at an Apple Store was pricey may be shocked at the cost of self-repair.

Not only are the parts themselves more expensive, but the cost of the tools is even higher. Even more so if you are buying the tools for future use rather than simply renting them. iPhone16 display and screw kits cost $265 if you are returning the old parts for recycling, and a 7-day tool kit rental adds another $49. The same repair will cost $279 if Apple repairs it out of warranty, or $29 if you use AppleCare Plus.

If you already have the right tools, you may save some money. But not a whole lot in the grand scheme of things. Still, it's nice to have options, and the fact that iPhone 16 parts are now readily available has the added benefit of making it easier to get third-party repairs. Even if not so cheaply.