You’re an Apple fan so you’ve probably already invested in a pair of AirPods or AirPods Pro. These wireless earbuds have changed the way we listen to music and take calls on the go.
But what happens when something goes wrong with your AirPods? That’s where AppleCare comes in. In this post we’ll cover what’s covered with AppleCare AirPods and why you should consider it for your audio gear.
AppleCare AirPods
AppleCare for headphones, including AirPods, is an extended warranty and service coverage plan that goes beyond the standard Apple limited warranty. It’s designed to give you peace of mind and protect your investment in Apple’s audio products.
What’s Included with AppleCare AirPods?
When you buy AppleCare for your AirPods you get more than just an extended warranty. Here’s what’s covered:
- Extended Technical Support: Get priority access to Apple experts for questions about your AirPods, how to set them up and how to use them.
- Hardware Coverage: This includes the Apple limited warranty and up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage per 12 months.
- Battery Service: If your AirPods’ battery drops to 80% of its original capacity you’re eligible for a battery replacement.
Service Coverage
AppleCare covers your AirPods, charging case and included accessories. This includes:
- Repair or Replacement: If your AirPods or charging case need repair Apple will fix them or replace them.
- Express Replacement Service: In most cases Apple will ship you a replacement device before you send in your damaged AirPods.
- Genuine Apple Parts: All repairs are done with previously used genuine Apple parts that have been tested and meet Apple’s functional requirements.
Benefits of AppleCare+
AppleCare+ offers a host of benefits that extend beyond the standard Apple Limited Warranty, providing comprehensive coverage and support for your AirPods. Here’s a closer look at what you get with AppleCare+:
- Extended Warranty: AppleCare+ extends your hardware repair coverage to two years from the purchase date, giving you peace of mind for a longer period.
- Accidental Damage Coverage: With AppleCare+, you’re covered for unlimited incidents of accidental damage. Each incident is subject to a service fee of $29, plus applicable tax, making repairs or replacements much more affordable.
- Express Replacement Service: Need a quick fix? AppleCare+ includes express replacement service. Simply contact Apple support, and they’ll send you a prepaid shipping box to return your damaged AirPods, ensuring you get a replacement device swiftly.
- Genuine Apple Parts: Rest assured that any replacement equipment provided under AppleCare+ is made with genuine Apple parts, meeting Apple’s high standards for quality and performance.
- Apple Authorized Service Provider: Your AirPods will be repaired or replaced by trusted experts at Apple Stores or Apple Authorized Service Providers, ensuring top-notch service.
- Pass Apple Functional Requirements: Replacement equipment provided through AppleCare+ is rigorously tested to pass Apple’s functional requirements, ensuring it performs just like new.
- Consumer Protection Laws: AppleCare+ benefits are in addition to any legal rights provided by consumer protection laws in your area, offering extra protection for your AirPods.
- Local Telephone Fees: While local telephone fees may apply, AppleCare+ gives you access to Apple experts via phone or chat, 24/7, for any support you need.
- Replacement Device: If your AirPods are damaged beyond repair, AppleCare+ ensures you receive a replacement device, so you can get back to enjoying your music and calls without interruption.
- Accidental Damage Protection: With unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection, each subject to a $29 service fee plus tax, AppleCare+ provides peace of mind for those prone to accidents.
Overall, AppleCare+ offers extensive service coverage and support, making it a valuable addition to your AirPods purchase.
From extended warranty and accidental damage coverage to express replacement service and genuine Apple parts, AppleCare+ ensures your AirPods are always in top condition.
The Repair Process
When you need service for your AirPods, you have several options for repair or replacement:
Apple Store Visit
You can take your AirPods to an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for a carry-in repair. This is usually the fastest way to get your AirPods fixed or replaced.
Mail-In Repair
If you can’t visit a store you can use Apple’s mail-in repair service. Apple will send you a pre-paid shipping box to send in your AirPods for repair or replacement.
Express Replacement Service
For fast turnaround Apple offers an express replacement service. They’ll send you a replacement device right away and you can return your original AirPods in the pre-paid shipping box.
Accidental Damage?
One of the biggest benefits of AppleCare AirPods is the accidental damage coverage. This covers:
- Dropping your AirPods
- Water damage
- Other physical damage
Please note that while AppleCare covers accidental damage it has some restrictions. Each incident may be subject to a service fee and there’s a limit to the number of incidents covered.
Service Fees for Accidental Damage
When you use your accidental damage coverage you’ll need to pay a service fee. As of the last update the fees were:
- $29 per AirPod
- $29 for the charging case
These fees are much less than buying new AirPods or a new charging case.
What’s Not Covered?
While AppleCare covers it all, there are some things it doesn’t, such as when your device is lost or stolen:
Lost or Stolen AirPods
Unfortunately AppleCare doesn’t cover lost or stolen AirPods. If you lose one or both of your AirPods or your charging case you’ll need to buy new ones at full price.
Cosmetic Damage
AppleCare doesn’t cover cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect the functionality of your AirPods. This includes scratches, dents or discoloration that occurs through normal wear and tear.
AppleCare Service Provider
AppleCare is provided by AppleCare Service Company, Inc., an Arizona corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Apple Inc. In some areas coverage is provided by Apple CSC, Inc.
Consumer Rights and Legal Disclaimer
AppleCare is in addition to your consumer rights under your local consumer protection laws. It doesn’t replace or supersede your legal rights. You may have additional rights under local consumer laws in your area.
Is AppleCare worth it for AirPods?
Whether or not to buy AppleCare for your AirPods depends on:
- Your Use: If you use your AirPods a lot or in situations where they might get damaged AppleCare might be a good investment.
- Your Budget: Consider the cost of AppleCare vs the cost of repairs or replacement without it.
- Peace of Mind: For many users the extended warranty and accidental damage coverage gives peace of mind.
Bottom Line
AppleCare AirPods covers more than the standard warranty. With technical support, hardware coverage including accidental damage, battery service, and replacement equipment, it’s a nice addition to your AirPods purchase.
Remember, whether you have original AirPods, AirPods Pro or any other Apple headphones AppleCare will help keep your audio uninterrupted. It doesn’t cover everything (like loss or theft) but it does cover many common issues and accidents.
Before you decide be sure to read the full details of the coverage and your personal use and habits. With that info you can decide if AppleCare is right for your AirPods.
