If you need help with an iPhone, iPad, Mac or other Apple product, whether it’s broken or faulty, or you just don’t know how to do something with it, the company will help you solve the problem. Apple says many issues can be resolved over the phone, chat, or email, but what sets it apart from other companies is its willingness to offer hands-on support from in-store Apple Geniuses.
You can talk to a Genius at the Genius Bar in an Apple Store. But to do this, you’ll need to make an appointment with Apple in advance: you can’t just show up. (Well, there are a limited number of walk-in appointments available and they may be able to fit you in, but chances are you’ll have to wait for hours and your trip will be pointless.)
In this article we show you how to make an appointment with a Genius at an Apple Store. But note that many questions can be answered using Apple’s online tools, by calling Apple Support, asking in Apple Support Communities, or by tweeting at .
How to make an appointment at the Genius Bar on the Apple website
- Time to complete: 10 minutes
Necessary tools: Internet connection
Apple Support Website
Apple
To make an appointment with a Genius at an Apple Store (which is free), go to the Genius Bar page on the Apple website (here are the links for the US, UK, Canada and Australia.) This page provides details for getting help. via chat, phone call or email if your problem is software related. Keep in mind that you will need to sign in with your Apple ID to make an appointment or use other sections of the support site.
For those who can’t access an Apple Store, the Genius Bar site can direct you to Apple Authorized Service Providers and provide you with information on how to get your device to an Apple repair center.
If you want to get hands-on support with your hardware issues through the Genius Bar, you’ll need to scroll down on the Genius Bar page and click “Get Hardware Help.”
Support offered online first
Apple
Apple doesn’t just let you make an appointment at the Genius Bar: the company wants to try to resolve your issue online first. After clicking “Get Hardware Help,” you will be taken to a website where you will have the option to “View Your Products” or “View Support Activity.” Click “View your product” and Apple wants you to identify the product, describe the problem, and then it will offer you some support documents that might help. It also offers the option to chat or call a support person. We recommend speaking to Apple by phone or chat if possible, as this could save you a lot of time.
Hardware repairs
Apple
This appears to be the only way to schedule an in-person appointment at the Genius Bar if your equipment may need repair. If so, the website will show you a cost estimate and the option to find the nearest Genius Bar. In certain situations, you also have the option of sending your device in for repair. When you click the “Find Location” button, a list of the nearest Apple Stores appears.
Choose a location
Apple
Choose a store and you will be taken to a page where you can make an appointment.
Schedule an appointment
Apple
You will be able to see the store’s next available time slot to view an Apple Genius. You’ll need to enter a phone number so Apple can “guide you to your appointment.”
Confirm your appointment
Apple
A confirmation window appears with your appointment details. If everything looks good, click Book Now.
Before going to a store, it is always recommended to back up your device. It will also be helpful if you bring a photo ID that matches the name you are booking with.
Once you’re ready, simply show up at your appointment time and tell a Genius that you’ve arrived!
Want to be a bit of an Apple genius? Read How to Get a Job as an Apple Store Genius.
Use the Apple Support app to book an Apple appointment
You can also use the Apple Support app to make an appointment at an Apple Store. To do this, download and launch the Apple Support app.
Once you are in the app, you will be asked to allow the app to use your location. If you tap Don’t Allow, you’ll need to manually provide location information. Make your selection, then tap Continue.
Faucet Research at the top. An extended search page will appear. Type “Genius” in the box, then select one of the Genius Bar results that appear. This will take you to the Genius Bar section where you can make an appointment.
Foundry
When you arrive at the Apple Store for your appointment, you can use the Apple Store app on your iPhone to check in and notify staff of your arrival.
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