Apple Support app finally lands in the US
Apple has always prided itself for its more personal approach to customer support, especially with its Genius Bar setup. However, let's face it, not everyone has the opportunity to haul themselves over to the nearest Bar. Or appointments are so packed that it's near impossible to find an empty slot. Times like those, it might be better to get some self help. Fortunately, Apple is also making that as humane as possible as well, with the Apple Support app that's finally available in the US, just in time for the holidays.
The app isn't actually that new. It was already spotted last month making its way through the Netherlands. We even saw glimpses of it last year in a preview app. As promised, Apple has made the app available in its biggest market: the US.
The new Apple Support app is actually a combination of three functionalities. One is the content found in the Tips app, which probably no one really uses for long. That app usually finds itself dumped in a temporary holding folder for apps considered to be "bloatware". The second feature takes the place of what is usually considered documentation for devices. You know, the usually unread manuals that once upon a time shipped with devices and took up bulk of the packaging.
The third functionality is really where the "Support" of "Apple Support" comes in. It includes the ability to look for nearby stores and Apple Geniuses, something that was already available in the Store app but was buried to the point of obscurity. This is joined by other options to connect you with real human customer representatives, like through e-mail or live chat.
Rather than just being a generic support app, Apple Support adds a personal touch by customizing part of the experience for each user. Specifically, it detects the devices associated with an Apple ID to provide documentation specific to that device and particular model. That's definitely going to be helpful in identifying that new iPhone or iPad that you or your folks will be getting this month.
So far, the new Apple Support app's availability is very limited, including only the Netherlands and, now, the US. Apple does say it will out to other countries soon, though doesn't hint whether that will happen before the year ends.
Download: Apple Support from iTunes App Store