If you’re an iPhone user, you’ve probably considered getting AppleCare+ at some point. Well, buckle up because the AppleCare iPhone price hike and new coverage changes are officially here. If you were on the fence before, this might push you one way or the other. But don’t worry—I’ll break it all down so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
How Much More Will AppleCare+ Cost for iPhones?
Let’s start with the money talk. AppleCare+ is getting pricier, and it’s not a tiny increase. Depending on your iPhone model, you might be paying anywhere from $10 to $30 more per year. That might not sound huge, but when you spread it out over a couple of years, it adds up. And if you’re already paying monthly, those small increases can sneak up on your budget.
If you’ve recently upgraded to an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, the new AppleCare iPhone price isn’t something you can avoid if you planned to get extended protection. Here’s what you need to know:
- The more expensive your iPhone, the more expensive AppleCare+ will be.
- Monthly plans have also gone up, not just the lump sum option.
- Higher-end models like the iPhone 15 Pro will see the biggest increase.
So, what does this mean? Well, if you were already stretching your budget to afford AppleCare+, this could push you into reconsidering it. But before deciding, let’s look at what’s changing in terms of coverage.
What’s Changing in AppleCare+ Coverage?
Now, onto the good news—because it’s not all bad. Apple is actually expanding coverage in ways that some users will find helpful. One of the biggest changes? AppleCare+ now includes coverage for lost or stolen devices—but only if you opt for the Plus with Theft and Loss plan.
This means if you tend to misplace your phone (or have terrible luck with theft), you’ll have an extra safety net. Before, if your iPhone was lost or stolen, you’d be out of luck unless you had specific insurance from your carrier.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s included now:
- Accidental damage still covered (drops, cracks, spills—life happens, and Apple knows it).
- Battery service if it drops below 80% health.
- Now includes theft and loss coverage (but with a deductible).
- Unlimited repairs for accidental damage (this one is huge).
That last bullet point is a big deal. Previously, you only got a limited number of incidents covered, but now, if you’re accident-prone, you won’t have to ration your repairs.
Is AppleCare+ Still Worth It?
Alright, let’s talk about the big question: Is AppleCare+ worth the new price? The answer really depends on how you use your phone and how careful you are. If you’re someone who has never cracked a screen, you might feel fine skipping out. But if you’ve had a few close calls (or straight-up disasters), paying a little extra might save you more in the long run.
Here’s how I personally think about it:
- If you upgrade yearly, you might not need it—it’s a short investment period.
- If you keep your iPhone for 3–4 years, then AppleCare+ starts making more sense.
- Frequent travelers or people using their phone for work should definitely consider it.
- If you’re clumsy and have a history of accidents, don’t even think twice—get it.
Weighing the cost of recurring payments against a potential $300 screen repair isn’t fun, but that’s the reality. If paying upfront now means avoiding a massive unexpected bill later, it might be the smarter play.
How to Decide Whether to Buy AppleCare+?
Let’s say you’re still unsure. Here’s what I’d do: Ask yourself how often you’ve needed repairs in the past. If you’ve paid out of pocket for a screen replacement at least once in the last two years, AppleCare+ could very well be worth it.
Also, check if you have coverage through other means—maybe your credit card offers purchase protection, or your carrier has a decent insurance plan already bundled in. No sense in paying for overlapping benefits!
Another thing to consider is resale value. An iPhone that’s been covered under AppleCare+ might retain more value when you sell it, since buyers will see it as well-maintained. If you’re someone who resells and upgrades often, this could put extra money back in your pocket down the road.
Final Thoughts on the AppleCare iPhone Price Changes
So, is the AppleCare iPhone price hike a dealbreaker? Not necessarily. It stings a little, sure, but Apple’s adding more value to the plan, even if it comes at a higher cost. If you’re someone who tends to drop their phone (or just has ridiculously bad luck), this update isn’t all bad news.
That said, if you’re careful with your devices and don’t mind taking the risk, you could skip AppleCare+ and save some cash. Either way, the most important thing is making an informed decision. Hopefully, this breakdown helped you figure out whether AppleCare+ is still the right move for your iPhone and your budget.
So, what do you think? Are you sticking with AppleCare+ despite the price hike or taking your chances without it?