HTC Vive, a premium virtual reality product maker, has announced that it will be teaming up with iFixit, the leading third-party supplier of tech parts, toolkits, and repair guides. As a result of the new partnership, HTC Vive headset owners will be able to buy parts, accessories, and repair guides for their VR systems from the iFixit website.
In making the decision to partner with an independent repair service like iFixit, HTC aligns itself with the "right-to-repair" movement currently making headlines in the United States. Rather than making its repair services only available via HTC-owned channels, or deciding to discontinue older headsets (like its competitor Oculus), the company aims to empower its customers to "extend the life of out-of-warranty products."
"This is groundbreaking. HTC is the first VR manufacturer to support their customers with the parts they need to keep their headsets functional," said the CEO and Co-founder of iFixit, Kyle Weins.
VR Headset Repair Services
HTC Joins iFixit to Allow for the Independent Repair of Vive Products
Trend Themes
1. VR Headset Repair Services - The growing concern for electronic waste provides a disruptive innovation opportunity for independent repair services
2. Right-to-repair Movement - The consumer-driven trend to increase product lifespan calls for increasing availability of repair services and spare parts.
3. Third-party Repair Services - Emerging demand for affordable and convenient repair services creates a market opportunity for independent repair service providers.
Industry Implications
1. Virtual Reality - VR manufacturers can benefit from partnering with independent repair service providers, as it aligns with their customers' demand for long-lasting products and reduces electronic waste.
2. Electronics Retail - Increasing demand for product repair services offers revenue opportunities for electronics retailers to expand their offerings and increase customer loyalty.
3. Third-party Repair Services - Third-party repair service providers now have opportunities to offer affordable repair services and gain market share from manufacturers' official repair services.