The Apple Upgrade Program offers a streamlined way to get a new iPhone every year. It’s a popular option for Apple enthusiasts, but understanding the requirements, especially concerning AppleCare, is crucial. This article breaks down the Apple Upgrade Program and clarifies the role of AppleCare, ensuring you’re fully informed before you enroll.
The iPhone Upgrade Program is designed for customers who want to upgrade to the latest iPhone models annually. For devices like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, the program is available to qualified customers upon credit approval and with a valid U.S. credit or debit card. It operates as a 24-month installment loan with a 0% APR through Citizens Bank, N.A. It’s important to note that while the loan itself is interest-free, any fees or interest from your card issuer would still apply. To participate, you must also purchase AppleCare+ for iPhone and activate your new iPhone with one of the national carriers: AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Sales tax and other applicable fees are due at the time of purchase. Full terms and conditions are readily available on Apple’s official website for those who want to delve into the specifics.
A key component of the iPhone Upgrade Program is the trade-in option. The value of your trade-in will depend on factors like the condition, year, and configuration of your current device. Not all devices are eligible for trade-in, and eligibility requires being of legal majority age. The trade-in value can be applied towards the purchase of your new iPhone or provided as an Apple Gift Card. Remember that the actual trade-in value is determined upon receipt and verification of the device matching the description given during the initial estimate. Sales tax may be calculated on the full price of the new device before trade-in is applied. For in-store trade-ins, a valid photo ID is required, and it’s worth noting that trade-in offers can vary between online and in-store and might not be available at all locations. Apple and their trade-in partners retain the right to refuse or limit any trade-in transaction. More comprehensive details regarding trade-ins and recycling are available from Apple’s official partners.
AppleCare+ for iPhone is mandatory for participation in the iPhone Upgrade Program, offering coverage for unlimited incidents of accidental damage from handling. For each incident, a service fee applies: $29 for screen or back glass damage and $99 for other accidental damage, plus applicable tax. It’s worth mentioning that the reduced service fee for back glass damage is specifically for iPhone 12 models and later.
Many people wonder if AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is required. It is not mandatory to purchase AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss to join the iPhone Upgrade Program. While standard AppleCare+ is a must, the Theft and Loss coverage is optional. If you choose to include it, the cost is simply added to your 24 monthly payments. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss does require the “Find My” feature to be enabled on your device for theft or loss claims. This enhanced plan covers unlimited accidental damage incidents and up to two theft or loss incidents every 12 months. Service fees are the same as standard AppleCare+ for damage, and a $149 deductible applies for theft or loss incidents.
It’s important to understand that AppleCare+ benefits are additional to the standard Apple Limited Warranty and any consumer protection laws in your jurisdiction. AppleCare+ operates under its own Terms and Conditions, which you agree to upon purchase. Purchasing either AppleCare+ plan is not a prerequisite for simply buying an iPhone, but it is for the Upgrade Program. In the United States, AppleCare+ obligations are handled by AppleCare Service Company, Inc., a subsidiary of Apple Inc.
AppleCare+ with Theft & Loss is essentially an optional extension that combines the benefits of standard AppleCare+ with a Theft & Loss insurance policy. This insurance is underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company and sold by AppleCare Service Company, Inc., and in New York, by Apple Inc. The coverage operates under a group policy, with specific terms, conditions, and limitations detailed in the certificate of coverage available on Apple’s legal website.
For payment convenience, Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI) are offered as a 0% APR payment option, but only if selected at checkout for eligible Apple products from official Apple sources. This is subject to credit approval and your credit limit. It’s crucial to choose ACMI at checkout to avail of the 0% APR; otherwise, standard Apple Card variable APR applies. For iPhone purchases using ACMI, you must select a carrier from AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, or Verizon. iPhones bought with ACMI are unlocked, offering carrier flexibility. ACMI is not available for all Apple purchase programs or on refurbished devices. The final month’s payment will adjust to reflect the total purchase price minus previous installments. ACMI terms can change, so always refer to the Apple Card Customer Agreement for the most current information.
To fully utilize Apple Card features, you need to add it to the Wallet app on a compatible iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS or iPadOS. Apple Card is subject to credit approval and is available to qualified US applicants, issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA. Apple Payments Services LLC is a service provider for Apple Card and Savings accounts, while neither Apple Inc. nor Apple Payments Services LLC is a bank. For residents of U.S. territories with Apple Card queries, contacting Goldman Sachs directly is advised.
In conclusion, the Apple Upgrade Program provides a straightforward path to a new iPhone each year, with AppleCare+ being a mandatory component. While AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is offered, it remains an optional addition. Understanding these details allows you to make an informed decision about participating in the program and choosing the right level of device protection. Always refer to Apple’s official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date terms and conditions.
