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Apple Support app users can now schedule repairs with authorized service providers

Apple in an update to its official Apple Support app for iOS on Tuesday activated a new feature that allows users to schedule repair appointments at participating Apple Authorized Service Providers.

According to release notes supplied alongside Apple Support version 1.1, users of the app are now able to schedule device repairs at Authorized Service Providers, not just Apple store Genius Bars. The integration greatly increases the number of service locations available to customers and is a welcome addition for users living in rural areas where the nearest Apple store might be hours away.

The change brings Apple Support more in line with the company's support website, which activated repair scheduling at authorized providers in December. Similar to the online version, Apple Support presents users with a list of repair venues that can be sorted by location, distance and available appointment. The scheduling process is identical to reserving a spot at the Genius Bar, with authorized facilities presenting open dates and times which can then selected by the customer.

While many Apple store locations are typically busy servicing online reservations and walk-ins, authorized repair providers often have open availability.

With the new update, Apple Support users can also filter service locations by mobile carrier.

In addition to the scheduling system modification, the app now supports Genius Bar reservations at Apple retail locations in China, Hong Kong, Macao, Turkey and United Arab Emirates. A new simplified authentication process has also been implemented, while the app now supports iOS 10 rich notifications for chat. Finally, Apple includes the usual unspecified bug fixes and improvements to its list of upgrades.

Apple Support for iOS launched in the Netherlands last November before making its way to the U.S. a month later. In many ways an iOS port of Apple's support website, the app is designed to provide users with technical documents, repair scheduling, personal support via phone, chat or email, and case history information, among other assets.

Apple Support version 1.1 is a free 110MB download from the iOS App Store.