AppleCare+ Pricing Update: What You Need to Know
Apple has announced an increase in pricing for its AppleCare+ extended warranty, affecting certain customers in the United States. This adjustment comes as the company aims to modify its service offerings.
Increased Costs Across Current iPhone Models
The monthly subscription fee for AppleCare+ is rising by 50 cents across all current iPhone models. As a result, users can expect to pay $8.49 monthly for AppleCare+ on an iPhone 16, a jump from the previous rate of $7.99. This fee hike impacts both standard AppleCare+ and the Theft and Loss variant for all existing iPhones.
Coverage Details and Deductibles
AppleCare+ offers valuable repair services that include coverage for up to two incidents of theft or loss within a year, subject to deductibles—$29 for screen or back glass damage and $99 for other types of accidental harm.
A Shift Towards Monthly Payments
Interestingly, Apple is nudging consumers towards opting for ongoing monthly payments instead of one-time up-front purchases. Consumers still have the option to purchase complete two-year coverage online at checkout; however, this will not be possible in physical retail stores or through the direct purchase option on iPhones.
A New Sales Strategy?
This change has been outlined by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, who reported that retail staff are now instructed to communicate that this strategy aims “to lower upfront costs while avoiding any lapses in protection.” Additionally, employees will prioritize promoting the more expensive Theft & Loss plan—a version which allows customers a replacement device at a flat fee of $149—but costs between $13.99 per month depending on which model is chosen.
Status Quo Remains For Other Devices
The price adjustments appear limited exclusively to iPhones as no changes have yet been stated regarding other devices like Macs or iPads. Currently, AppleCare+ pricing ranges from $6.49 up to $17.99 monthly for Mac products while Ipad plans vary between $3.49 and $8.49 based on specific models.
