What do AppleCare+ customers wish they'd known before buying it?
It's worth it only if you're accident-prone.
Most people who regret it never used it; those who broke a screen or battery early are glad they had it. The real catch: it doesn't cover loss or theft unless you pay extra for
Checked Sep 9
How likely are you to drop or damage your device in the next two years?
Why?
Repairs are pricey A cracked screen on a recent iPhone can run $300+, while AppleCare+ costs a fraction of that upfront.
It's not loss protection Standard AppleCare+ doesn't cover theft or loss; you need the pricier tier for that.
Time limit catches people You can only buy it within 60 days of purchase, so waiting to decide often means you're locked out.
Exact prices and coverage terms shift with each new model, so check Apple's current page before you commit.
If your situation is different
How likely are you to drop or damage your device in the next two years: Clumsy. Then it's worth it. Screen repairs alone can cost more than the plan, especially on newer models.
How likely are you to drop or damage your device in the next two years: Careful. Probably skip it. You're paying for insurance you won't use; put that money aside instead.
How likely are you to drop or damage your device in the next two years: Kids or pets. Get it, and the theft tier too. Accidents happen with little ones around, and loss coverage is the part people forget.
Who is AppleCare+ right for?
Right for
- People who drop phones regularly
- Parents of young children
- People who keep a phone for two years
- Anyone with a pet that knocks things over
Wrong for
- People who use a case and screen protector
- People who upgrade every year
- People who never damaged a phone
- People who want theft coverage on the cheap
What does AppleCare+ cost in 2026?
| Figure | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 screen repair | $329, 2026 | AppleCare+ costs less than one repair, so one accident pays for it. |
| AppleCare+ for iPhone 17 | $199 for two years, 2026 | That's about $8 a month, less than a coffee. |
| AppleCare+ with theft and loss | $299 for two years, 2026 | Adds $100 for coverage that replaces a stolen phone. |
| Battery replacement with AppleCare+ | $0, 2026 | Free if battery holds less than 80% capacity, otherwise $99. |
| Purchase window | 60 days from purchase, 2026 | You can't add it later, so decide early or skip it. |
What's the biggest AppleCare+ mistake?
The biggest mistake is buying AppleCare+ for a phone you treat gently, then never using it. People also forget it doesn't cover loss or theft unless they paid for the higher tier. Instead, be honest about your habits: if you've cracked a screen before, buy it; if not, save the money.
How do you decide if AppleCare+ is worth it?
- Check your last two phones for cracks or damage.
- If you've damaged one, buy AppleCare+ within 60 days of purchase.
- If you haven't, skip it and put $200 in a repair fund.
- If you travel or lose things often, pay the extra for theft and loss coverage.
People also ask
What does the theft and loss tier cost?
Theft and loss runs about $4.50 a month. That's on top of the standard AppleCare+ plan, and it's a flat add-on for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Exact price varies by device and region, so check Apple's page for your model.
Can I add AppleCare+ after 60 days?
Usually no, but you can still get it in some places. Apple's standard window is 60 days from purchase, but a few countries and some Apple Stores let you add it later with an inspection. Check your region's policy or ask at a store.
Does it cover battery replacement?
Yes, AppleCare+ covers battery replacement. If your battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity, it's covered with no service fee. If it's just aging normally, you'll pay the out-of-warranty price.
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