Page 3: Here we go: step by step

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A few preparatory steps are required to carry out a diagnosis. In addition to the device to be analyzed, you need a Mac that will display the diagnostic results. Both must be connected to the Internet.

1. you must simulate a US location for the diagnostic tool on the Mac. To achieve this, you need a Virtual Private Network (VPN), where your data traffic is redirected via an American server. If you are not yet using one for other applications, we recommend a free trial period with a major provider such as NordVPN or GhostVPN. A period of a few days is sufficient for the diagnosis.

2. make a note of the serial number of the device to be analyzed. You can usually find this in the settings under "About this device" or on the box. Apple also physically engraves it on the device, albeit in tiny letters. On MacBooks, it is on the bottom, on iPhones (as IMEI) on the SIM tray.

3. switch off the device: Macs via the menu bar; iPhones by pressing and holding the volume up and power buttons and switching off with the slide switch. This ensures that no running processes interfere with the diagnostics.

4. activate the diagnostic mode: Depending on the end device, starting the device in this diagnostic mode differs slightly. For example, if the iPhone is switched off, you must hold down both volume buttons and then connect it to a power supply. This should provide sufficient power (20 watts or more) to ensure that the device is adequately supplied with power throughout the diagnostic process. As soon as the Apple logo appears, release the buttons but leave the device plugged in. Once the iPhone has started the internal diagnostics software, it must be connected to the Internet via WLAN. Alternatively, Macs can also connect via Ethernet.

On Apple Silicon Macs, press and hold the power button when switching on until the various start options appear. Then release the switch and start the diagnostic mode with Command (#)-D. For Intel Macs, switch on the Mac and immediately press and hold the D button. Do not release it until a loading bar appears, or your Mac asks for the language. If the D key does not work as desired, press Option (#)-D at startup. With the Studio Display, diagnostics are carried out on the display itself. To do this, open the browser on the directly connected Mac and continue with step 5.

5 Now the end device with the browser and the American IP address comes into play. Activate the diagnostic connection there by going to the Apple diagnostic website (see web code for link). Enter the serial number of the device to be analyzed.

6. after successfully establishing contact and confirming on the device to be tested, you can perform various diagnostics offered on the website. These include audio output tests to ensure that the speaker and microphone are working properly; multi-touch tests to check how well the screen responds to touch; Face ID tests to check whether facial recognition is working properly, and much more.

7 In rare cases, the result is also inconclusive. For example, the web portal responded with incorrect information when we tested iPhones that had a third-party battery installed. Apple assumes that you are using original hardware.