With Quick Drop, we’ll never again wait in line for a Genius.

We love Apple, but fixing a broken computer can be a pain. Too much planning, too much waiting, and none of the instant gratification we love. Now, thanks to a tip from a disgruntled genius, the next time our Mac fails, we’ll know to use Quick Drop:

Basically, it goes like this: you go into an store with your broken computer, only to be told you (a) need an appointment, (b) the next one isn’t for 4 hours, and (c) you can schedule one from home tomorrow morning and come back then. As long as you keep saying no, they’ll eventually run out of things to say, and invoke the mystical Quick Drop.

There’s a form that you fill out, and leave your computer with them. Within 24-48 hours, you should get a call from a Genius who’s diagnosed the issue with your machine, and who gives you a quote.

Read the full letter inside…

Greetings Consumerist!

Many of us who have had to deal with it know how broken Apple’s Genius Bar is. Soon, its about to get more broken, and you won’t be able to make an appointment in-store, only from home.

So then, if your computer’s broken, you’re hosed.

But not so fast! Not too long ago, they started an internal process called “Quick Drop.” Basically, it goes like this: you go into a store with your broken computer, only to be told you (a) need an appointment, (b) the next one isn’t for 4 hours, and (c) you can schedule one from home tomorrow morning and come back then. As long as you keep saying no, they’ll eventually run out of things to say, and invoke the mystical Quick Drop.

There’s a form that you fill out, and leave your computer with them. Within 24-48 hours, you should get a call from a Genius who’s diagnosed the issue with your machine, and who gives you a quote.

One thing to beware of, though. If the computer is out of warranty, or has physical damage, and you decline the repair when they call you, you’re still on the hook for $100 labor.

Just thought you’d like to know…

A disgruntled Genius.

Quick Drop only works if you have AppleCare or your computer is less than one year old. If not, you’ll have to pay $100 or wait in line with the rest of us. — CAREY GREENBERG-BERGER

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