If you are planning on purchasing the new iPhone SE , you may want to consider adding an insurance option to protect your device in case of damage, loss or theft. This optional coverage extends Apple’s one-year limited warranty, which already covers any hardware defects in the phone. In this column, we will discuss the benefits of AppleCare+ and compare it with other warranty plans available from SquareTrade and wireless carriers.
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ is the de facto insurance option that many iPhone owners add to their handset. It can be purchased directly from Apple and extends the hardware warranty on the phone from one to two years. It also adds additional customer service options and covers accidental damage under most conditions. AppleCare+ is available as an optional add-on when you purchase your iPhone, but you also can add it on later. If you decide to add AppleCare, you must purchase it within 60 days of purchasing the phone. You also may be required to bring the device in for inspection or conduct a remote test to validate that the phone is in operational condition
AppleCare+ for the iPhone SE costs $99 and provides two years of coverage. You will receive two accidental claims that’ll replace your phone in case you crack the screen or damage the phone by dropping it in water. Each accidental damage claim for the iPhone SE requires a $79 service fee, slightly less than the $99 fee for the iPhone 6s/6s Plus.
To service the phone under AppleCare+, you can either send the phone into Apple or visit an Apple retail store for repair or replacement. Unlike carrier insurance, AppleCare+ does not cover lost or stolen devices. I learned from the first-hand experience that if you drop your phone into a lake and can’t retrieve it, then you are out of luck. AppleCare+ also will replace any defective or broken iPhone headphones, a defective Lightning cable or a battery that has been depleted by more than 50 percent within your warranty coverage period. If you jailbreak a device, Apple will refuse your warranty repair. If you require service on your jailbroken device, just restore your device to factory settings before bringing it in for service.
AppleCare+ is available internationally and is transferrable, so you can transfer your iPhone to someone else, and the plan goes along with the device. You also can cancel the policy at any time and receive a pro-rated refund.
SquareTrade
Third-party companies like SquareTrade offer an affordable alternative to AppleCare+, but there are a few catches. The SquareTrade plans provide three years of coverage for $139 ($4/month), two years for $119 ($5 per month) or one year for $69 ($6 per month). The warranty extends the manufacturer warranty as well as provides up to three accidental damage claims with a $99 deductible.
SquareTrade is less expensive than AppleCare+, but it is not as convenient as AppleCare+. To receive service with SquareTrade, you can send your iPhone in to be fixed after you’ve paid the deductible. This mail-in service is the most convenient option, but you will be without your phone for several days while it is being fixed. You also can to go the Apple Genius bar or a third-party repair shop to have your iPhone fixed. In these cases, SquareTrade will reimburse you for the repairs. Only certain repairs are reimbursable including a cracked screen, camera failure, battery failure, liquid damage, charging port failure, touchscreen malfunction, headphone jack problems and others. Similar to AppleCare+, SquareTrade does not cover the loss or theft of devices.
Wireless Carrier Warranties
Most carriers offer a warranty service that you can add onto your monthly wireless bill. These plans are similar to AppleCare and SquareTrade in that they cover manufacturer defects, offer accidental damage coverage and include a deductible. Unlike AppleCare and SquareTrade, these policies also cover theft and loss, providing you extra protection in case you no longer have your phone. They are more expensive than other warranty options, but some people may prefer paying a bit more for this loss/theft protection.
Pricing varies between carriers, so you will have to check with your provider for detailed information. For example, AT&T offers its Mobile insurance on most phones for $7.99 per month with a deductible that decreases over time. A claim within six months of purchase will cost $199 while a claim within 6-12 months is $149 and claims after 12 months require a $99 deductible. You are eligible to file two claims of up to $1,500 each in any 12-month period.
Credit Card Warranties
If you own a Visa, MasterCard, American Express or another credit card, you should check the terms of your card to see if they offer any form of insurance when you use the card to purchase a device. Plans will vary, but you may be eligible for insurance at a rate that is much lower than competing services.
Conclusion
Purchasing a warranty is useful, but not a necessity. It all depends on how much you want to spend, how well you take care of your iPhone and what retailers or stores in your area. If you opt not purchase a warranty, then you should invest in a durable case and screen protector to protect your phone from an unexpected drop or water damage. Is your current iPhone covered by a warranty plan? Do you plan adding one when your purchase your next phone? Let us know in the comments.
iPhone SE Buyer’s Guide:
