HomePod bought in USA is not repairable in NZ

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Level 1

8 points

HomePod bought in USA is not repairable in NZ

I bought a HomePod in the USA a few years ago as they were not available in NZ at the time. However, this amazing speaker etc died suddenly...no power. I contacted Apple NZ to try and get it repaired, but all Apple authorised repairs that I have contacted say they cannot repair it as this model was not available in NZ. It would be a shame to throw this away.... Has anybody got any suggestions...or have an Apple US email address that I could discuss this with?

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HomePod, 17

Posted on Jul 3, 2024 4:10 PM

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Answer 1

6x6

Level 6

15,608 points

Jul 3, 2024 4:32 PM in response to frans d

To my knowledge and accord to this document from Apple, the HomePod (1st generation) exists only as one model. It is the same for the HomePod mini and the HomePod 2nd generation: there is only one model sold throughout the world. There is no differentiation by region like the one that exists for iPhones, for instance. That being said the plug prongs might be different in NZ.

I'm a little surprised that the NZ Apple authorized repair shops would not be able to repair it. It may have to do with the fact that Apple recently categorized the original HomePod as "vintage".

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Answer 2

frans d Author

Level 1

8 points

Jul 14, 2024 12:46 PM in response to David McKinlay

Thanks. Yes it appears that it has to do with licensing agreements that prohibits them from repairing it in NZ. Apple has informed me that I could send it to Australia to get repaired. Seems odd but that's bureaucracy for you.

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Answer 3

Jul 14, 2024 6:51 AM in response to frans d

Additionally, the first model of HomePod (now declared "vintage") was never sold in New Zealand, which may be an impediment to repairing one in NZ.

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