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Protect your tech

Extend the service warranty on Apple products at a discount

by MARC SALTZMAN

As a technology journalist, I’m often asked if buying extended warranties for devices is a good idea. My standard answer is, it depends. If the warranty is reasonably priced, and if it offers comprehensive coverage, then it could make sense if it will give you peace of mind. After all, a little insurance can go a long way, especially for higher-priced items or if you’re accident-prone.

But when it comes to Apple devices, AppleCare+ (Apple’s protection plans), is a no-brainer because you don’t have to spend a lot to safeguard against all kinds of accidental damage, and you will probably bring many of these products (MacBook Air, iPad, AirPods and Apple Watch) with you on trips or daily commutes, which increases the odds of something happening to them.

Apple offers AppleCare+ for its products regardless of where you purchase them, but Costco members can save up to 24% off AppleCare+, depending on the product. This is a big savings, and for the exact same coverage that would cost you more if you purchased it elsewhere. And it covers the wide assortment of Apple products you can purchase at Costco.

Most Apple products already include a one-year limited warranty that covers hardware failures and manufacturing defects. To extend your coverage, AppleCare+ is a protection plan that can be added to an Apple product, at the point of purchase or some time afterwards—up to 60 days for an iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch, or up to a year for Mac computers and Apple TV.

Depending on the Apple product, AppleCare+ provides up to three years of hardware coverage, which includes accidental damage, such as a broken screen or liquid damage. As of September 2022, AppleCare+ covers an unlimited number of accidental damage incidents, up from two incidents every 24 months previously. There is, however, a fixed deductible depending on the device and type of damage.

If you buy an iPhone, you also get coverage for up to two incidents of theft or loss for an additional fee, providing you keep “Find My” enabled on your lost device (see Lost and found).

Other benefits of AppleCare+ include express replacement service and priority 24/7 access to Apple support by chat or phone.

AppleCare+ is a great way to give yourself peace of mind and solid protection for your Apple gear.

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