Apple to add iOS sync hubs to Genius Bars for iDevice replacements
Your local Apple Store Genius Bar is about to get a much needed upgrade -- a wireless data hub that will allow you to temporarily sync your data should you need an iDevice replacement.
Though iPads, iPhones, and iPod Touches are becoming less and less dependent on being connected to a computer, one important part of owning an iOS device still requires a Mac or PC -- backup.
The piece of mind that comes along with having an accessible backup for all your contacts, calendar events, texts, apps, and photos goes a long way. For users who experience a malfunction of their device that requires it to be replaced, they must have a current backup of their information or be subject to losing it when Apple replaces their unit.
The wireless sync hubs that sources reporting to 9to5Mac say are going to be added to Apple Store Genius Bars aim to solve that problem. Once installed, users will be able to backup their iDevice data at the Genius Bar, get their device replaced, and re-sync all their content right at the bar.
Now, instead of leaving the Apple Store with a replacement iPhone and none of your apps, you'll be able to get right back to playing Angry Birds and responding to text messages with a stream of Emoji icons.
Of course iCloud, Apple's cloud-based syncing solution, does provide users with limited backup opportunities, but Apple thinks the experience at the Genius Bar should be more efficient for its customers, not to mention more convenient should any users not have an iCloud set up.
According to 9to5Mac's sources, the Genius Bar sync hubs should launch on a test basis by mid-2013 with a full-scale launch (if the pilot program is successful) to occur later in the year. In the meantime, iOS device users should be sure to keep current backups of their information should you ever have to get your iPhone or iPad replaced.
How often do you backup your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch? Let me know in the comments!