Apple announces Self Service Repair - Apple

…and if the customer screws up the repair and bricks the device will getting it back online be covered under AppleCare? I ask that, having bricked more than one device attempting upgrades.

I'm guessing they're trying to gain back some of the dollars third-party repair folks are raking in, replacing batteries and screens for way less than Apple charges.

That was my take also. Magnuson-Moss requires them to accept non-OEM parts. Selling OEM parts to independent repair shops opens up another channel of revenue for Apple, and will surely take business away from the existing aftermarket parts suppliers.