The pandemic presents huge challenges to communities around the world, including community repair groups. Fortunately, we see the world through the lens of repair and are practised problem-solvers. We’ve been inspired to see how groups around the world have adapted online.
A poll by YouGov shows that more Britons would like to repair their smartphones instead of replacing them. For laptops, a stronger majority prefer repair. But there are major barriers.
Many groups in our network are using our software to log community repair data after events. We asked some of them to tell us more about their experience with data. What motivated them to start recording data at repair events? What have they used repair data for?
We discuss the limitations of reuse with Apple laptop refurbisher John Bumstead, AKA RDKL Inc. Special chips like Apple’s T2 chip can control our access to devices. What does this mean for ownership rights after the first owner?
We talk to Shamil Joomun, the co-owner of London-based vintage audio restoration company and café, Armstrong Audio. Now located in Walthamstow, east London, Armstrong Audio has a long history and a unique approach to repair.