How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (2025)

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (1)

Apple tech problems? Better learn how to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple store, and get it seen to by the professionals.

Whether you’re experiencing issues with a brand new iPhone 14 Pro Max, a MacBook Air M2, or even an older set of AirPods, you can probably get it sorted by taking it into an Apple store. Even if your problem isn’t hardware related and you instead need support with software or your Apple ID account, the Genius Bar is there to help.

However, you can’t just walk in and get seen by a Genius immediately. Naturally, as they sell some of the best phones, best tablets and best laptops around, Apple stores are very busy places, so you need to book a Genius Bar appointment ahead. Thankfully, it’s super easy using your Apple tech. So, if you want to learn how to book an Apple Genius Bar appointment, here’s how.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment on iPhone and iPad using the Apple Support app

  1. Open the Apple Support app on an iOS or iPadOS device
  2. Tap the device you're having issues with
  3. Select your issue from the categories list
  4. Find the screwdriver icon and tap Find Authorized Locations
  5. Choose a store to visit
  6. Choose a date and time for your appointment

Read on to see detailed instructions for each step.

The easiest way to book a Genius Bar appointment is via an iOS or iPadOS device. When signed in to your Apple ID on one of these devices, booking an Apple Genius Bar appointment is really effortless, thanks to the ever-useful Apple Support app.

If you don't already have it installed, you need to download Apple Support from the App Store first.

1. Open the Apple Support app, then tap the device you're having issues with under My Devices.

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How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (2)

2. Select your issue by tapping on the relevant categories. If your issue doesn't need a Genius Bar visit (certain software issues) you'll be given the option to speak to an agent by live chat or phone call, which you can select by tapping whichever method you'd prefer.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (3)

3. If your issue requires a visit to a Genius Bar, you'll see an option to Bring in for Repair. This could be underneath other suggestions for things you may be able to do to try and fix the issue yourself first. To book a Genius Bar appointment, tap Find Authorized Locations underneath the screwdriver icon.

4. You'll now see a list of your nearest Apple Stores with a Genius Bar. If your location is incorrect or if you'd prefer to search somewhere else, you can search by city or ZIP code in the search bar at the top. Once you've found your preferred store, tap the store's name to continue.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (5)

5. On this page, you can choose your preferred appointment time and date, before tapping Reserve to confirm your appointment. Enter your phone number if you'd like to receive confirmation and updates by text. You'll now receive an email to confirm everything.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (6)

How to book an Apple Genius Bar appointment via the Apple website

If your iPhone or iPad isn't working or you're on a Mac, the best way to book an Apple Genius Bar appointment is via Apple's support page. You can access this page through any web browser. You'll need to sign in with your Apple ID, so make sure you know your sign in credentials before going ahead.

1. Head to Apple's Get Support page, then click Sign in. Follow the instructions and sign in using your Apple ID.

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2. Once you're signed in, click Choose a product to see a list of the devices linked to your Apple ID.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (8)

3. You'll now see a list of the devices linked to your Apple ID. Click the device you're having issues with.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (9)

4. In this section, choose what the issue is by clicking on the relevant categories. After choosing click Continue underneath "See your support options".

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5. For issues that don't necessarily require a visit to a Genius Bar (certain software issues), you'll be recommended to speak with an agent, either by live chat or by phone, which you can do by clicking on whichever method you'd prefer.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (11)

6. For issues which warrant a Genius Bar visit, you'll see the option "Bring in for Repair". To book your Genius Bar appointment, click Find a location.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (12)

7. Based on your location, you'll see a list of your nearest Apple Stores with a Genius Bar. If your location is incorrect or if you wish to visit a Genius Bar somewhere else, click the town/city name at the top of the page. Otherwise, click the name of the Apple Store you want to take your device to.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (13)

8. You can schedule your visit to the Genius Bar by clicking the date and time you want. When you're done, click Continue, then click Reserve now to confirm. You'll receive an email confirmation of your Genius Bar appointment.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (14)

Now you know how to book an Apple Genius Bar appointment, check out our other Apple-related guides, including how to use hot corners on Mac, how to enable iPhone Guided Access mode, how to set up a Wi-Fi hotspot on iPhone, how to clear RAM on iPhone how to edit PDFs on iPhone and iPad and how to make your old iPhone last longer. AirDrop not working? Here's how to fix it, and how to troubleshoot and reset Bluetooth too.

How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (15)

Dale Fox

Freelance Journalist

Dale Fox is a freelance journalist based in the UK. He's been a tech nerd ever since childhood, when he used the money from his first job as a paperboy to buy a subscription to GamesMaster magazine. Dale was previously a presenter and editor in China, where he also worked as a copywriter for OnePlus at its Shenzhen HQ.

With contributions from

  • Peter WolinskiReviews Editor

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    How to make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store (2025)

    FAQs

    How do I make an appointment at my local Apple Store? ›

    To make an appointment, tap Stores. Choose an appointment type, such as the Genius Bar for personalized troubleshooting. Choose Make a Reservation and select a product (such as Mac, iPhone or iPad). Choose a nearby store location.

    How do I prepare for Apple Genius Bar appointment? ›

    For example, you should schedule a Genius Bar reservation before you go to an Apple Store. When you go to the service location, you should bring: Your device and any accessories that you need help with.

    What is the best time to go to the Apple Store without an appointment? ›

    The Genius Bar is at its busiest around 5pm and around lunch time, since that's when people are usually out of the office. The best times to stop by the Apple Store for a walk-in are probably 3pm or 4pm, since most people are still in the middle of their workday at that point.

    Does Apple Genius Bar cost money? ›

    Do they charge you if you go into the Apple Store for help? It's free to make a genius bar appointment at an apple store. The only charge would be if you need to have the phone replaced out of warranty. It's free to make a genius bar appointment at an apple store.

    Do I need to book an appointment at the Apple Store? ›

    While it is not required, you take a chance with a walk in. Many times Apple stores are extremely busy places, and those with appointments will get preference over a walk in. You can look up the store you wish to go to at the Apple web site and book the appointment online.

    Can you just show up to the Apple Store without an appointment? ›

    Before you go directly to an Apple Store and try to get the attention of a Genius, start online or with a phone call. The Genius Bar allows for a very limited number of walk-ins each day, and if you arrive without an appointment, you might need to wait quite a while to be seen — or turned away entirely.

    Do you tip at the Apple Genius Bar? ›

    "Apple employees everywhere can tell you that they are already being offered tips by customers," the union representing the store in suburban Baltimore said. As it stands, if an Apple employee accepts a tip, he or she could be fired.

    What happens if you miss a Genius Bar appointment? ›

    They are very particular about scheduling repairs, and if you miss your chosen appointment time, you might be there for a while, or they might even have you reschedule. XI. After that you should be directed to a confirmation page and a confirmation email should be sent to you.

    Is it safe to give an iPhone for repair? ›

    Before you bring your device in or send it to Apple for a service, follow these steps to help protect your personal information and save time on your repair. Never give your Apple ID password, device passcode or account security details to anyone else.

    What is the least busy day at the Apple Store? ›

    If you must go on a weekend, early Sunday morning — as soon as they open — is best. Mid-week — Tuesday thru Thursday — are usually a little better than Monday & Friday. Mornings are the least busy (especially right after opening), followed by early afternoon.

    Is Apple only taking appointments? ›

    Some locations will handle walk-in problems, but not all of them allow for that. Unfortunately walk-in may also require you to wait for someone if there are appointments scheduled before you. Depend on how much wait time you have and if they support walk-ins.

    Can you get Apple support without an appointment? ›

    Online or over the phone, we'll arrange shipment for your product to an Apple Repair Center — all on your schedule and without an appointment. This service is available for most Apple products.

    How do Genius Bar appointments work? ›

    Genius Bar appointments involve hardware-related issues only. Apple offers online support first before you can seek an in-person appointment option. Begin by going to the Apple Support website. Scroll down to the Get Support section and select Start now.

    Do I need an Apple ID to make a Genius Bar appointment? ›

    If your iPhone or iPad isn't working or you're on a Mac, the best way to book an Apple Genius Bar appointment is via Apple's support page. You can access this page through any web browser. You'll need to sign in with your Apple ID, so make sure you know your sign in credentials before going ahead.

    Why is it called Genius Bar? ›

    Put support center stage; it's a genius idea

    Another reason Apple named their in-store support the “Genius Bar” is because it puts customer service in the spotlight. “Let's take help and make it center stage,” Johnson explained to Steve Jobs. Johnson's idea was that technology can be difficult.

    How can I contact Apple customer service? ›

    Is there a 24-7 Apple support? ›

    Apple's online support provides the most comprehensive support information available from Apple. Apple online support inlcudes software updates and utilities, technical support and product information and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    How to reset Apple ID password? ›

    Go to Settings. Tap your name > Sign-In & Security > Change Password. Follow the onscreen instructions to reset your password.

    How to factory reset an iPhone? ›

    Erase iPhone using Settings
    1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
    2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
    3. If asked, enter your iPhone passcode or Apple Account password.
    4. Tap Continue to confirm. If you have an eSIM, you can choose to erase your eSIM or keep it.

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