How to Get AppleCare for AirPods: A Deep Dive

So, you want to safeguard your precious AirPods with AppleCare+? Smart move! These little sonic companions are an investment, and accidents do happen. Getting AppleCare+ for your AirPods is a straightforward process, but understanding your options is crucial. You can purchase AppleCare+ for AirPods in several ways:

• At the time of purchase: This is the most common and often the easiest method. When you buy your AirPods (or AirPods Pro or AirPods Max) from Apple’s website, an Apple Store, or an authorized reseller, you’ll be offered the option to add AppleCare+ to your order during the checkout process. Simply select the AppleCare+ option before completing your purchase.
• Within 60 days of purchase: If you skipped adding AppleCare+ during the initial purchase, you have a 60-day grace period to reconsider. During this time, you can purchase AppleCare+ online, by phone, or in person at an Apple Store. However, be prepared for a quick diagnostic test. Apple needs to verify that your AirPods are in good working order before they’ll let you enroll them in AppleCare+.
• Online: You can purchase AppleCare+ through Apple’s website by entering your AirPods’ serial number. The website will guide you through a remote diagnostic test to ensure your AirPods are functioning correctly.
• By Phone: Call Apple Support, provide your AirPods’ serial number, and they can walk you through the AppleCare+ purchase process. Again, a diagnostic test might be required.
• In an Apple Store: Visit your local Apple Store and speak to a Specialist. They can physically inspect your AirPods, run a diagnostic test, and add AppleCare+ to your device.

Remember that each method requires you to provide the serial number of your AirPods. This can be found on the original packaging, or, if you’ve already paired them with your iPhone or iPad, in the Settings app under “Bluetooth” then tap on your AirPods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about AppleCare+ for AirPods

Here are some crucial FAQs to help you make the most informed decision regarding AppleCare+ for your AirPods:

1. What Does AppleCare+ for AirPods Actually Cover?

AppleCare+ for AirPods provides extended hardware coverage, including batteries, for up to two years from the original purchase date. It also covers unlimited incidents of accidental damage, each subject to a service fee. This means if you accidentally drop your AirPods in water or step on them, you can get them repaired or replaced for a pre-determined fee.

2. What Isn’t Covered by AppleCare+ for AirPods?

While AppleCare+ provides comprehensive coverage, it doesn’t cover everything. For example, loss or theft of your AirPods is not covered. Cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect the functionality of the device is also typically excluded. Furthermore, damage caused by misuse or unauthorized repairs won’t be covered.

3. How Much Does AppleCare+ for AirPods Cost?

The cost of AppleCare+ for AirPods varies depending on the model. Generally, AppleCare+ for standard AirPods is cheaper than for AirPods Pro or AirPods Max. The price is a one-time fee paid at the time of purchase or enrollment. Check Apple’s website or an Apple Store for the most up-to-date pricing. Remember to factor in the service fees for accidental damage incidents, as these are charged separately per incident.

4. What are the Service Fees for Accidental Damage?

Currently, the service fee for accidental damage to AirPods or the charging case is a specific amount, usually around $29 per incident, plus tax. The service fee for accidental damage to AirPods Max is a higher amount, typically around $29 per incident, plus tax for each ear cup, or $29 plus tax for the headband. These fees are significantly lower than the cost of replacing the AirPods entirely, making AppleCare+ a worthwhile investment if you’re prone to accidents.

5. How Do I Check If My AirPods Are Eligible for AppleCare+?

You can easily check your AirPods’ eligibility for AppleCare+ on Apple’s website. Simply enter your AirPods’ serial number on the “Check Coverage” page. This will tell you if your AirPods are still within the 60-day window for purchasing AppleCare+ or if they’re already covered by a warranty or AppleCare plan.

6. How Do I File a Claim Under AppleCare+ for My AirPods?

If you need to file a claim under AppleCare+ for your AirPods, you can do so online, by phone, or in person at an Apple Store. You’ll need to provide your AirPods’ serial number and explain the issue you’re experiencing. Apple will then guide you through the repair or replacement process.

7. Can I Transfer AppleCare+ if I Sell My AirPods?

Yes, AppleCare+ is transferable if you sell or give away your AirPods. The recipient will inherit the remaining coverage period. To transfer AppleCare+, you’ll need to provide the new owner with proof of purchase and the AppleCare+ agreement confirmation. You can then contact Apple to officially transfer the plan to the new owner’s Apple ID.

8. What Happens If My AirPods’ Battery Degrades?

One of the significant benefits of AppleCare+ is battery coverage. If your AirPods’ battery retains less than 80% of its original capacity within the AppleCare+ coverage period, Apple will replace the batteries free of charge. This is a huge advantage, as battery degradation is a common issue with AirPods over time.

9. Is AppleCare+ Worth It for AirPods?

The value of AppleCare+ depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re careful with your devices and rarely experience accidents, you might not need it. However, if you’re prone to dropping your AirPods, use them frequently in environments where they could get damaged (like the gym or outdoors), or simply want peace of mind, AppleCare+ is a worthwhile investment. The cost of a single accidental damage repair or battery replacement can easily exceed the cost of AppleCare+.

10. Can I Purchase AppleCare+ After the 60-Day Window?

Unfortunately, no. Apple typically only allows you to purchase AppleCare+ within 60 days of the original purchase date of your AirPods. After this period, you won’t be able to enroll your AirPods in AppleCare+. There might be exceptions in certain regions or under specific circumstances, but it’s best to adhere to the 60-day rule.

11. What If I Have Multiple Sets of AirPods? Do I Need AppleCare+ for Each One?

Yes, AppleCare+ coverage is specific to each individual set of AirPods. If you have multiple pairs, you’ll need to purchase separate AppleCare+ plans for each set you want to protect. The serial number is the key identifier, and each AppleCare+ plan is linked to a unique serial number.

12. Can I Cancel AppleCare+ and Get a Refund?

Yes, you can cancel AppleCare+ and potentially receive a prorated refund. The refund amount depends on how long you’ve had the plan and whether you’ve made any claims. If you cancel within the first 30 days, you may be eligible for a full refund (depending on local regulations). After 30 days, the refund will be prorated based on the remaining coverage period. Contact Apple Support to initiate the cancellation process.

Investing in AppleCare+ for your AirPods can provide valuable peace of mind and protection against unexpected mishaps. By understanding the coverage, costs, and claim process, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you and your precious earbuds.