The iPhone Upgrade Program is a popular option for Apple enthusiasts in the U.S. to get their hands on the latest iPhones every year. It allows you to pay for your new iPhone in monthly installments over 24 months, and after 12 months, you have the option to upgrade to the newest model. A common question that arises when considering this program is whether AppleCare+, Apple’s device protection plan, is a mandatory requirement. Let’s clarify this and break down what you need to know about participating in the iPhone Upgrade Program and AppleCare+.
Participating in the iPhone Upgrade Program does require a few things: you need to be a qualified customer with a credit check, have an eligible U.S. credit or debit card, and agree to a 24-month 0% APR installment loan from Citizens Bank, N.A. You also need to activate your new iPhone with one of the national carriers such as AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Sales tax and any other applicable fees are due at the time of purchase.
Close-up of a person holding a new iPhone, highlighting the screen and sleek design, relevant to the iPhone Upgrade Program
Now, while the iPhone Upgrade Program does mention the “purchase of AppleCare+ for iPhone” in its terms, it’s crucial to understand that purchasing AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is not actually mandatory to participate in the program. You are required to get standard AppleCare+ as part of the iPhone Upgrade Program enrollment. However, the more comprehensive AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is optional.
Standard AppleCare+ for iPhone provides coverage for unlimited incidents of accidental damage from handling. For each incident, there’s a service fee: $29 for screen or back glass damage and $99 for other accidental damage, plus applicable tax. It’s important to note that the back glass damage service fee is only available for iPhone 12 models and later.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss expands on this by including up to two incidents of theft or loss coverage every 12 months, in addition to the accidental damage protection. If you opt for this plan, you’ll need to have the Find My feature enabled on your device in case of loss or theft. The service fees are the same for damage ($29 or $99), and there’s a $149 deductible for theft or loss incidents. The cost of AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss, if you choose it, will be spread out over your 24 monthly payments.
Both AppleCare+ plans are separate from the standard Apple Limited Warranty and consumer protection laws. Purchasing either plan is not a requirement to buy an iPhone in general, but standard AppleCare+ is a requirement for the iPhone Upgrade Program. AppleCare+ with Theft & Loss is an optional add-on device protection program that combines the benefits of standard AppleCare+ with theft and loss insurance.
For those interested in using the iPhone Upgrade Program, remember you will be enrolled in standard AppleCare+. If you are specifically concerned about theft or loss coverage, then AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is an option to consider, but it is not a prerequisite to join the iPhone Upgrade Program itself. Make sure to review the full terms and conditions on Apple’s website to understand all the details and make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
