I want to share my experience with you, regarding recent visit to the "Genius Bar" at an Apple store. Basically, I made an appointment online by using one of the links below (depending on location)… and this is my story. Bear in mind NOT all Apple Stores offer this service.

• http://concierge.apple.com/geniusbar/R428 (HK customers)
• http://www.apple.com/retail/geniusbar/ (US customers)
• http://www.apple.com/uk/retail/geniusbar/ (UK customers)

The process of reserving an appointment online was simple and easy. I was set to go in to see some “genius” at an Apple retail store around 6.30pm on a dull Wednesday evening. Let’s see if this they can help me solve my problem.

There's a great stroy behind all of this ... you have to read on and check out the photo!

The problem

Well, it’s something I’m not proud of … but recently, during a heated argument with my EX, she threw my iPad 1 (64GB Wifi+3G) across the living room. Needless to say, the iPad was as good as dead. The screen was obliterated! But wait ... there's another problem, the iPad wasn’t mine … I borrowed it from a friend. so, what can I do?

The solution

1. Get a replacement. Another iPad 1 (used/2^nd hand)
2. Get it repaired (not sure if they can)
3. Buy a new iPad 2 (really don’t want to)
4. Or Just throw it in the bin and claim it on the insurance!

The "Genius Bar" Guy

He was helpful, unlike some snobby Apple fanboyz. Using his iPad 2, he opened an App which allowed him to check the appointments for that time slot ... and sure enough my name was on that list.

He directed me to the signature Apple wooden desk/top and asked me to take a seat, while he fetched another "Genius" guy to answer my questions.

After a minute or say a happy, out-going "Genius" guy came along and asked me what my problem was. I explained the situation (I just said the iPad no longer works ... and that's it. Didn't want to put the blame on myself :P) He was quite chatty thoughtout.

The "Genius" guy studiously checked the damaged iPad and then asks me what I want to do. I said can you repair it? After a thoughtful pause ... he said that it would be best just to replace it.

Now, that's what I thought. He then gives me 2 options ...

1. Get a replacement iPad (64GB, Wifi+3G) at a much reduced price of HKD $2868 (USD $370)
2. Or buy a new iPad 2. The same spec (64GB, Wifi+3G) would cost me HKD $6488 (USD $835)

The Decision

Now since the original iPad isn't mine, I thought there's no point getting the iPad 2 ... I know the iPad 2's price is a little extra, well actually more than double, but I feel the replacement was the cheaper and better option.

The "Genius" guy said that they have the model in stock and I could purchase it now! But wait, I still wasn't sure if it was the best option. Any way, I asked if it would be possible to reserve it for about a month, while I decide. And guess what ... he was happy to do so. Wow! now that's a first!

So now I have a month to think about my available options.

Final Words

My overall experience of the "Genius Bar" was quite enjoyable and pleasant. I didn't feel intimidated or bewildered. Would I make another appointment to the "Genius Bar"? ... hell yeah! Why not, it's FREE and you don't have to own an Apple product to see the "Genius" guys ;)

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