Introduction
AppleCare is an additional warranty protection plan offered by Apple to customers who purchase their devices. This is an extended warranty plan that covers your device against damage, hardware failures, and other issues that may arise after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.
Having AppleCare is important because it gives you peace of mind and saves you from the added costs of repairs or replacements. However, AppleCare must be purchased when you buy your device. But what if you didn’t get it at the time of purchase? Can you still buy AppleCare afterwards?
Read on to discover the pros and cons of buying AppleCare after purchase, the process of adding it to your device, and why delayed AppleCare may be a good idea.
The Pros and Cons of Buying AppleCare After Purchase: Is It Worth the Investment?
While it is better to buy AppleCare at the same time when purchasing a device, there are still pros and cons of buying it later.
Benefits of having AppleCare:
- Extended warranty coverage
- Priority service at Apple stores and online support
- Coverage for accidental damage
- International coverage
Potential drawbacks of purchasing AppleCare after the fact:
- Delay in coverage start date
- More expensive after purchasing a device
- No discount storage program
- Not everyone may require AppleCare coverage
Despite the drawbacks, purchasing AppleCare after the fact may still be worth the investment.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Adding AppleCare to Your Apple Device After Purchase
If you decide to buy AppleCare later, the process of adding it to your device is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Apple Support website.
- Select your device model and serial number.
- Choose “Add or Update AppleCare Coverage” option.
- Enter your Apple ID or password to sign in.
- Follow the prompts on the screen and select either the individual or family plan.
- Enter your payment information to complete the purchase.
- Verify your coverage status by going to My Support page on Apple website.
Common problems you may encounter during the process include not being able to find your device’s serial number, difficulty in signing in to your Apple ID, or payment issues. In such cases, seek assistance from Apple Support.
Don’t Miss Out on AppleCare: Why You Should Consider Adding It Later
If you missed the chance to buy AppleCare when purchasing your device, you can still add it later. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding it:
- Apple devices are costly, and repairs or replacements without warranty protection can be expensive.
- Devices are vulnerable to wear and tear, malfunctions, and accidental damage, making them more prone to problems.
- Adding AppleCare later saves you money and protects your device against hardware problems.
- It also gives you priority service at Apple stores and online support whenever you need help.
Apple’s Extended Warranty: Buying AppleCare After the Fact
Apple’s extended warranty is a broader warranty coverage that provides long-term protection to your devices. It includes AppleCare as an extended warranty plan.
AppleCare is an extension of the manufacturer’s warranty and provides coverage for up to three years. You can add it during purchase or within the initial 60 days after purchase. Apple’s extended warranty can cover the device beyond the initial three years, depending on the type of device and apple coverage you have.
Comparing the two options, AppleCare offers more extensive coverage than Apple’s extended warranty. AppleCare provides worldwide service coverage and covers accidental incidents.
Delayed AppleCare: How to Protect Your Device Even After You’ve Bought It
If you missed the chance to buy AppleCare, you can still protect your device in other ways. Here are some other options:
- Third-party insurance can be purchased for mobile devices and laptops for covering accidental damage.
- Use protective cases to minimize the chances of accidental damage.
- Be careful while handling your device to avoid accidents and damage.
- Backup your data regularly.
- Purchase AppleCare Plus which covers accidental damages given that you have an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch.
Though delayed AppleCare is still an excellent idea, other measures may help you protect your device and minimize costs in case of hardware problems.
AppleCare: Should You Add It Later or At the Time of Purchase?
The timing of purchasing AppleCare depends on various factors, including:
- Your budget and financial capabilities
- The type of device and its costs
- Your ability to handle your devices carefully and avoid accidental damage
- Your willingness to invest in long-term protection plans for your devices
Adding AppleCare later still provides significant benefits, but getting it at the time of purchase is ideal. You’ll be able to enjoy coverage for the entire period of your device’s lifespan and benefit from discounts on Apple’s storage programs.
Regretting Not Buying AppleCare? Here’s How You Can Still Protect Your Device.
If you didn’t purchase AppleCare at the time of device purchase and now regret it, it’s never too late to act. You can still protect your device using these alternatives:
- Purchasing third-party coverage for accidental damage or theft.
- Being careful with your device to avoid hardware problems or damaging it.
- Regularly backup important data on your device to minimize losses.
- Purchase AppleCare Plus if you have an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch.
Conclusion
Having AppleCare is essential, and it provides long-term protection for your Apple devices. While it is better to get AppleCare at the time of purchase, adding it later still offers significant benefits. Delayed AppleCare is still an excellent idea, but other measures may help you protect your device if you missed the chance to buy it.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of purchasing AppleCare after the fact, and to understand the process of adding it to your device. Use the information provided to make an informed decision about when and how to add AppleCare to your device.
