When purchasing a new iPhone, one of the biggest decisions beyond choosing the model and storage capacity is whether to invest in AppleCare+. While AppleCare+ offers extended protection, it comes at an additional cost, making some users wonder: Is it really worth it?This article breaks down everything you need to know about AppleCare+, including its coverage, costs, alternatives, and who should (or shouldn't) consider buying it.
Every new iPhone comes with a one-year limited warranty and 90 days of complimentary technical support. This covers manufacturing defects but does not protect against accidental damage.
AppleCare+ extends this standard coverage, offering:Extended warranty – Extends hardware coverage from one year to two years. Accidental Damage Protection – Covers two incidents of accidental damage every 12 months (with a service fee).
Battery Service – Covers battery replacement if the battery health drops below 80%.
24/7 Priority Support – Get direct access to Apple’s customer service via chat or phone.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss (Optional) – Covers up to two incidents of theft or loss per year (requires Find My iPhone to be enabled).
Service Fees for AppleCare+ Repairs
AppleCare+ is not a free repair service—there are deductibles (service fees) for accidental damage:
Without AppleCare+, repair costs can be significantly higher. For example, replacing a damaged screen on an iPhone 15 Pro costs $329 without AppleCare+ but only $29 with it.
AppleCare+ is an additional cost, so the real question is whether it actually saves you money in the long run. To determine this, we need to compare the cost of AppleCare+ with the potential expenses of out-of-pocket repairs or replacement.
The price of AppleCare+ depends on your iPhone model. For newer models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the one-time fee for two years of coverage is significant, but Apple also offers a monthly payment plan that continues until canceled. If you opt for AppleCare+ with Theft & Loss, the cost increases, but it provides additional security in case your device is lost or stolen.
Even with AppleCare+, repairs aren’t free—you still have to pay a service fee. However, the savings can be substantial. For example, if you crack your screen, AppleCare+ lets you replace it for a small fee, while repairing it without coverage can cost several hundred dollars.
Similarly, if your iPhone suffers accidental damage from water exposure or a hard drop, AppleCare+ drastically reduces the repair cost.For those who opt for the Theft & Loss plan, replacing a lost or stolen iPhone costs significantly less than buying a new device at full retail price. Without coverage, losing an iPhone means paying the full replacement cost, which can be well over a thousand dollars.If you never break your phone (which is hardly a guarantee), AppleCare+ may not be necessary.
But for those who are careless, it can quickly pay for itself. A single screen repair or back glass replacement already covers a large portion of the plan’s cost. And if you ever lose your iPhone, the savings are even more significant.If you want to avoid expensive repairs or replacements, investing in AppleCare+ isn’t the only option—getting a high-quality iPhone case is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your device.
A durable case can significantly reduce the risk of damage from accidental drops, minimizing the chances of needing costly repair.Brands such as TORRAS offer stylish, highly protective cases that enhance drop resistance while maintaining a sleek look. If you want to extend the life of your iPhone and reduce repair costs, consider choosing a quality case! Included here are the latest iPhone 16 cases!
If you fall into any of the following categories, it might be a smart choice for you.
Frequent Droppers and Accident-Prone Users
If you’ve ever dropped your phone on concrete, spilled coffee on it, or watched it slip out of your pocket, AppleCare+ could save you from expensive repairs. Accidental damage is one of the most common issues for iPhone users, and without coverage, even a single repair can cost more than the plan itself.
People Who Keep Their iPhone for Several Years
If you tend to keep your iPhone for multiple years rather than upgrading frequently, AppleCare+ ensures you have affordable repairs throughout its lifespan. The longer you own your device, the higher the chances of accidental damage, making extended coverage more valuable.
Users Who Travel Often
If you travel frequently, especially internationally, getting repairs can be difficult and expensive. AppleCare+ provides global coverage, meaning you can get service in different countries through Apple’s network. This can be a lifesaver if you damage your phone while abroad.
Those Who Want Peace of Mind
Some users simply prefer knowing they’re covered, even if they never end up using AppleCare+. If you don’t like the idea of unexpected repair costs and prefer predictable expenses, this plan can provide peace of mind.
Users Concerned About Theft or Loss
If you’re worried about losing your iPhone or having it stolen, AppleCare+ with Theft & Loss can be a great option. Without this coverage, replacing a lost device means paying full price for a new one, which can be a significant financial hit.Who Might Not Need AppleCare+?
Ultimately, AppleCare+ is worth considering if you want extra security against accidents, theft, or long-term usage risks. If you prefer to rely on a high-quality case and careful handling, you might be able to skip it altogether.
Related: What factors affect the comfort of an iPhone 16 case?
Yes, you can purchase AppleCare+ within 60 days of buying your iPhone. If you don’t add it at the time of purchase, you can still buy it later through the Apple website, an Apple Store, or by calling Apple Support. However, Apple may require you to complete a remote diagnostic test to ensure your iPhone is in good condition before allowing you to enroll in the plan.
Yes, AppleCare+ covers accidental water damage, but it’s not free. If your iPhone is damaged by liquid, Apple will repair or replace it for a $99 service fee. This is significantly cheaper than paying the full out-of-warranty repair cost, which can be hundreds of dollars depending on the damage.However, if your iPhone is completely destroyed by water (for example, lost in the ocean), standard AppleCare+ won’t replace it.
You’d need AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss, which covers lost or stolen devices for a $149 deductible.To minimize the risk of water damage, consider using a water-resistant iPhone case, especially if you’re often around pools, beaches, or rainy environments.
AppleCare+ and AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss both extend your iPhone’s coverage beyond the standard warranty, but the key difference is theft and loss protection.
The standard AppleCare+ covers accidental damage, such as cracked screens and water damage, for a lower service fee. It also includes battery service if your battery health drops below 80%.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss includes all the benefits of the standard plan plus coverage for lost or stolen iPhones. If your device is stolen or lost, you can get a replacement for a $149 deductible, which is significantly cheaper than buying a new iPhone.
However, to make a claim, Find My iPhone must be enabled at the time of loss.If you’re mainly concerned about repairs, AppleCare+ is a solid choice. But if you want extra peace of mind against theft or loss, upgrading to AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss may be worth it.
To check your AppleCare+ coverage, follow these steps:
Alternatively, you can visit Apple’s Check Coverage page and enter your iPhone’s serial number to view your AppleCare+ status and expiration date.
Yes, you can cancel AppleCare+ at any time and may be eligible for a refund, depending on when you cancel.If you cancel within 30 days of purchase, you’ll receive a full refund, minus any service fees for repairs you’ve already used. If you cancel after 30 days, Apple will issue a pro-rated refund based on the remaining coverage period, also deducting any claims made.
To cancel, you can go to Settings → Your Name → Subscriptions on your iPhone, contact Apple Support, or visit an Apple Store. If you’re paying monthly, canceling will stop future charges, but you won’t get a refund for past payments.
No, AppleCare+ only covers the iPhone itself. Accessories such as chargers, cables, and AirPods are not included in the plan. However, if your accessories are defective and still under the standard one-year Apple warranty, you may be able to get them replaced through Apple Support.
These FAQs should help clarify whether AppleCare+ is the right choice for you. If you’re still unsure, consider how likely you are to need repairs and whether investing in a high-quality iPhone case and screen protector could be a better long-term solution!
AppleCare+ offers valuable protection and can save you money if you're careless and often cause damage to your phone. Otherwise, a rugged case or self-insurance may be a better option.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About AT&T Insurance for iPhones
