AppleCare+ drops prepaid options | Logo Credit: Apple
Apple has officially discontinued prepaid multi-year AppleCare+ plans at retail locations, just days after rumors began circulating.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is transitioning its AppleCare+ extended warranty program to a subscription model, a change that occurred sooner than expected.
Buyers previously had the option to add AppleCare+ at the point of purchase or online through Apple within 60 days of purchase. They could also extend coverage up to 45 days after expiration in select countries.
As of Tuesday, prepaid options have been removed from all retail outlets. Prepaid two-or-three year AppleCare+ plans can still be purchased if you buy your product from Apple’s website, but this may change in the future.
Certain products like AirPods, HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV do not offer a subscription option for AppleCare, instead allowing customers to purchase two-or-three year coverage for those devices.
Small products like AirTag and accessories like keyboards, mice, and the Apple Pencil are not eligible for AppleCare+ coverage.
Apple introduced the AppleCare+ subscription option in 2021, providing buyers with the flexibility to cover their purchases for as long as they desire.
AppleCare+ subscriptions cover a range of Apple devices including iPhones, iPads, Mac models, Apple Watch, Apple Vision Pro, and Apple Displays. It is a separate service from AppleCare, which is included with all new Apple products.
AppleCare provides a one-year limited warranty and 90 days of free technical support, covering manufacturer hardware defects. AppleCare+ adds coverage for accidental damage, battery depletion, and offers 24/7 priority access to technical support. iPhone owners can also opt for theft and loss coverage for an additional charge.
To check your AppleCare+ coverage expiration, navigate to Settings > General > About > Coverage on your iPhone or iPad, and to the Apple Menu > System Settings > General > About on your Mac.