14 DAY TRIAL // Customers of new iPhones now have up to one year to get AppleCare+ for their device, as Apple decided to update its policy. Previously, people could get AppleCare+ only within 60 days after buying a new phone.
Apple hasn’t yet updated its website to include the new policy, but “a senior AppleCare advisor” has stated for MacRumors that the purchase window for AppleCare+ will be extended. The change would be made to reflect the fact that customers will be able to add AppleCare+ coverage within the one-year warranty for any iPhone.
Apple adopted a similar policy when it comes to AppleCare for Mac and Apple TV, which can be purchased no later than 365 days (or 366 days in case of leap years) after buying the new product.
Retroactive extension for iPhone owners
Moreover, the report mentions that the extension is retroactive and only applies to iPhone products. Customers who bought iPhones in the past year will be able to get AppleCare+ now. At this point, it’s uncertain whether the new policy applies to other Apple products, like the iPad, iPod touch or Apple Watches.
In addition, the longer purchase window for AppleCare+ might only be offered to US customers of iPhones. Currently, AppleCare+ costs $129 for most iPhones and $99 for iPhone SE. It extends the phone’s warranty to two years and adds up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage. Each of these damages is subject to a service fee of $29 for screen damage or $99 for any other damage.
AppleCare+ for iPhones also adds 24/7 priority access to AppleCare advisors via chat or phone for two years after the device was purchased. However, customers that don’t get AppleCare+ will receive a one-year warranty and 90 days of telephone support.
Currently, AppleCare+ covers EarPods, Lightning to USB cables, as well as batteries. Before purchasing AppleCare+, Apple physically inspects the device or runs a remote diagnostic test to make sure everything is in order.