AppleCare+ for iPhone, iPad, iPod and Apple Watch Now Covers Batteries That Retain Less Than 80% of Original Capacity
Apple has updated the terms of its AppleCare+ Protection Plan for iPhone, iPad, iPod and Apple Watch to cover batteries that retain less than 80% of their original capacity within the extended warranty period, whereas it previously covered batteries that retained less than 50% of their original capacity. The change applies to AppleCare+ purchased for iPhone, iPad, iPod and all Apple Watch models on April 10, 2015 or later.
Previous language of the agreement stated that only devices with batteries below 50 percent capacity could receive a repair or replacement.
If during the Plan Term, you submit a valid claim by notifying Apple that (i) a defect in materials and workmanship has arisen in the Covered Equipment, or (ii) the capacity of the Covered Equipment’s battery to hold an electrical charge is less than eighty percent (80%) of its original specifications, Apple will either (a) repair the defect at no charge, using new parts or parts that are equivalent to new in performance and reliability, or (b) exchange the Covered Equipment, with a replacement product that is new or equivalent to new in performance and reliability. All replacement products provided under this Plan will at a minimum be functionally equivalent to the original product.
Apple will replace defective batteries that do not live up to the 80% specification free of charge as long as the device is within its AppleCare+ coverage period. Otherwise Apple will $79 for out-of-warranty battery service for all Apple Watch batteries that retain less than 80% of their original capacity per Apple’s diagnostic testing, plus a $6.95 shipping charge if necessary.
AppleCare+ for the Apple Watch Sport is $49, $69 for the Apple Watch and $1,500 for the Apple Watch Edition. AppleCare+ for all iPhones and iPads is $99. The plan limit remains the same; AppleCare+ extends full coverage of devices to two years, except the Apple Watch Edition where AppleCare+ extends coverage to three years.
