As an Apple device enthusiast, there’s nothing more frustrating than dropping your prized possession and watching in horror as the screen shatters into a thousand pieces. The good news is that Apple offers a range of protection options, including AppleCare+, which provides accidental damage coverage, including screen repairs and replacements. But how many times can you rely on AppleCare to replace your screen, and what are the limitations of this coverage?
What is AppleCare+?
Before we dive into the specifics of screen replacements, let’s take a step back and understand what AppleCare+ is. AppleCare+ is an extended warranty program offered by Apple that provides additional coverage for your device beyond the standard one-year limited warranty. This program is designed to provide peace of mind for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac owners who want to ensure they’re protected against accidental damage, technical issues, and other mishaps.
AppleCare+ offers a range of benefits, including:
- Accidental damage coverage, including screen repairs and replacements
- 24/7 priority support from Apple experts
- Repair and replacement of defective parts
- Coverage for battery depletion of 80% or less
- Transferability of coverage to a new owner if you sell or gift your device
How Many Times Will AppleCare Replace My Screen?
Now, let’s get to the main event. With AppleCare+, you’re eligible for up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage, including screen repairs and replacements, every 24 months. This means that if you damage your screen, you can have it replaced or repaired up to two times within the 24-month coverage period.
Here’s the catch: each incident is subject to a service fee, which varies depending on the type of device and the nature of the damage. For example, if you damage your iPhone 13 screen, you’ll need to pay a service fee of $29. If you damage your MacBook Pro screen, the service fee jumps to $299.
It’s essential to note that AppleCare+ only covers accidental damage, not intentional damage or neglect. If you intentionally damage your device or fail to take reasonable care of it, you won’t be eligible for coverage.
What Constitutes an Incident?
So, what exactly constitutes an incident when it comes to accidental damage coverage? According to Apple, an incident is any single event that results in damage to your device, including:
- Screen cracks or shattering
- Water or liquid damage
- Drops or falls that damage the device’s exterior or internal components
- Other forms of accidental damage that impair the device’s functionality
It’s important to understand that if you have multiple incidents in a single event (e.g., you drop your iPhone and the screen cracks, and the camera lens is also damaged), this will be considered one incident. However, if you have multiple separate incidents within the 24-month coverage period (e.g., you drop your iPhone and crack the screen, and then six months later, you spill coffee on the keyboard), these would be considered two separate incidents.
What’s the Process for Replacing My Screen?
If you do need to replace your screen, the process is relatively straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:
- Contact Apple Support: Reach out to Apple’s 24/7 support team to report the incident and request service. You can do this online, by phone, or through the Apple Support app.
- Diagnostic Testing: Apple will perform diagnostic testing to determine the extent of the damage and confirm that it’s eligible for coverage.
- Service Fee Payment: You’ll need to pay the applicable service fee, which will vary depending on the type of device and the nature of the damage.
- Screen Replacement or Repair: Apple will replace or repair your screen, typically within 3-5 business days.
Limitations and Exclusions
While AppleCare+ provides excellent coverage, there are some limitations and exclusions to be aware of:
- Pre-existing conditions: If your device has a pre-existing condition or damage that’s not related to accidental damage, it won’t be eligible for coverage.
- Normal wear and tear: AppleCare+ doesn’t cover normal wear and tear, such as scratches or fading that occur over time.
- Intentional damage: As mentioned earlier, AppleCare+ doesn’t cover intentional damage or neglect.
- Battery depletion: While AppleCare+ covers battery depletion of 80% or less, it doesn’t cover battery depletion caused by unauthorized modifications or repairs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AppleCare+ is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to protect their Apple device against accidental damage, including screen repairs and replacements. With up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 24 months, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re protected against life’s little mishaps.
Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of your AppleCare+ policy to understand what’s covered and what’s not. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your coverage and enjoy your Apple device with confidence.
| Device | Service Fee |
|---|---|
| iPhone 13 | $29 |
| MacBook Pro | $299 |
Note: Service fees are subject to change and may vary depending on your location and the type of device.
What is AppleCare and how does it work?
AppleCare is a protection plan designed by Apple to provide extended warranty and support for their products, including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and more. When you purchase AppleCare, you essentially buy an extended warranty that covers repairs and replacements for your device in case it gets damaged or malfunctions.
With AppleCare, you get 24/7 priority support from Apple experts via phone, email, or online chat. If your device needs repair or replacement, AppleCare allows you to get it done quickly and efficiently, often with same-day or next-day service. Additionally, AppleCare also provides accidental damage coverage, which means you’re protected against unexpected events like drops, spills, or other accidents that might damage your device.
What is covered under AppleCare’s replacement policy?
AppleCare’s replacement policy covers a range of issues, including screen damage, cracked or shattered screens, water damage, and other types of accidental damage. If your device is damaged due to an accident, you can contact Apple support to request a replacement or repair. AppleCare also covers manufacturing defects and other issues that may arise during normal use.
It’s worth noting that AppleCare’s replacement policy has some limitations. For example, it doesn’t cover intentional damage or damage caused by unauthorized modifications. Additionally, AppleCare may require you to pay a service fee or deductible for certain types of repairs or replacements.
How many times can I replace my device under AppleCare?
With AppleCare, you can get two incidents of accidental damage coverage per year, each subject to a service fee or deductible. This means you can replace your device up to two times per year due to accidental damage, as long as you pay the required fee.
It’s important to keep in mind that AppleCare’s coverage is limited to two incidents per year, so if you have a history of being accident-prone, you might want to consider additional protection options. Additionally, AppleCare’s coverage is only valid for a specific period, usually two or three years depending on the plan you choose.
What is the service fee or deductible for AppleCare replacements?
The service fee or deductible for AppleCare replacements varies depending on the type of device and the type of repair or replacement needed. For example, if you need to replace a shattered iPhone screen, the service fee might be around $29. If you need to replace the entire device, the deductible might be around $229.
It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of your AppleCare plan to understand the exact service fees and deductibles that apply to your device. Keep in mind that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check Apple’s website or contact their support for the most up-to-date information.
Can I cancel my AppleCare plan if I don’t need it?
Yes, you can cancel your AppleCare plan at any time, but the terms of cancellation vary depending on where you purchased the plan. If you bought AppleCare from Apple, you can cancel within 30 days of purchase and get a full refund. If you cancel after 30 days, you’ll get a pro-rated refund based on the remaining coverage period.
It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of your AppleCare plan to understand the cancellation policies that apply. If you’re unsure about canceling your plan, you can contact Apple support for more information.
Can I purchase AppleCare after I’ve already purchased my device?
Yes, you can purchase AppleCare within 60 days of buying your device. However, you’ll need to make sure your device is in good condition and not already damaged when you purchase the plan. Apple may also require you to run a diagnostic test on your device to ensure it’s eligible for coverage.
Keep in mind that purchasing AppleCare after you’ve already bought your device may not provide the same level of coverage as buying it at the same time as your device. Additionally, some sellers may not offer AppleCare for devices that are already damaged or have existing issues.
Is AppleCare worth the cost?
Whether AppleCare is worth the cost depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you’re prone to accidents or have a history of damaging your devices, AppleCare might be a valuable investment. Additionally, if you rely heavily on your device for work or other essential activities, having a reliable protection plan in place can provide peace of mind.
On the other hand, if you’re careful with your devices and don’t expect to need repairs or replacements, you might not need AppleCare. It’s essential to weigh the cost of the plan against the potential benefits and consider your own risk tolerance before making a decision.