
Apple’s device protection plans previously had to be applied within 60 days, but AppleCare One blows past this window with coverage on devices up to four years old after a diagnostic.
We’ve all been in the checkout with our new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or even AirPods with that toggle glaring at us from the corner — add AppleCare for more cash. Then, after checkout, the Settings app reminds you of how many days are left in the 60-day window to get proper coverage.
Those days are finally behind us with AppleCare One, which can provide coverage on devices up to four years old, or headphones less than one year old. The only catch is that devices will need to undergo a diagnostic check or be reviewed by a tech in an Apple Store.
This expansion of coverage options, the aggressive pricing, and the variety of devices are all an obvious attempt to increase services revenue through sheer volume. Apple likely hopes to capture the market of people not paying for AppleCare at all due to its price by giving them such a good deal, it can’t be ignored so easily.
The four-year device age is a very important addition, since it means nearly every active Apple user in the US will be able to apply for the new AppleCare One plan. Apple isn’t specific about the requirements other than the devices needing to be in good condition.
A diagnostic can be performed via an iPhone or iPad. Apple specifies that in some cases, devices will have to be taken into an Apple Store prior to being added to the plan.
It isn’t clear if this extends to Apple’s authorized service providers like Best Buy. While Apple has a lot of stores around the United States, most users will be hours away from their nearest location.
So, if you’re still hanging onto an M1 iMac, an iPhone 13, or iPad mini 6, now is your chance to get AppleCare coverage. Any device that is upgraded will automatically be removed and replaced from the AppleCare One plan, and since the plan is monthly, users can adjust device coverage at will.
AppleCare One launches on July 24 at $19.99 per month for three devices. Add more devices at any time for an additional $5.99 per month.