To add AppleCare to your iPhone, you must purchase AppleCare+ within 60 days of buying the device. The simplest way to add AppleCare to iPhone is directly through the Settings app on your phone.
Can you add AppleCare to your phone?
AppleCare+ is only available for Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It cannot be added to Android or other non-Apple phones. For a new Apple device, you can enroll in AppleCare+ at the time of purchase or within 60 days after your purchase date. In some regions, Apple requires you to wait until the device ships or is picked up before you can buy coverage; for example, coverage can be purchased four days after shipment and within 60 days of purchase.
How to check if your iPhone is eligible for AppleCare+
Two methods let you confirm eligibility before you purchase coverage.
- Check in Settings: Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the warranty status and purchase date listed there. If your iPhone is within 60 days of its original purchase, it is likely eligible.
- Use Apple's support website: Go to Apple's coverage check tool and enter your device's serial number. The tool will display your current warranty status and whether AppleCare+ can still be added.
Step 1: Check the purchase date of your iPhone using your purchase receipt or purchase history in your Apple ID account. Step 2: Verify the current warranty status by going to Settings > General > About and looking for the 'Limited Warranty' section. Devices with existing damage or issues may not be eligible for AppleCare+.
How to add AppleCare to your iPhone within 60 days
The primary self-service method is through the iPhone's Settings app. Apple documents that you can start a new AppleCare+ plan from Settings on your iPhone within 60 days of a new Apple purchase. To do this, navigate to Settings, then General, then AppleCare & Warranty. Follow the on-screen prompts to purchase and activate your plan. This method works only for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Other ways to purchase AppleCare+ for your iPhone
If you prefer not to use the Settings app, you have several alternatives.
- During initial iPhone purchase: Add AppleCare+ when buying your iPhone online, in an Apple Store, or through the Apple Store app.
- At an Apple Store or authorized retailer: Visit any Apple Store or an authorized retailer after your purchase. Apple's support flow also allows you to purchase coverage through phone support.
- Carrier options: Some carriers offer their own protection plans. For example, if you manage your account through T-Mobile account management, you may find carrier-specific coverage options. However, AppleCare+ itself is an Apple product and is not purchased through carrier portals.
What to do after buying AppleCare+
No separate registration step is needed. The purchase itself activates the plan, linking it to your iPhone's serial number. Keep your proof of coverage, such as the plan agreement number or purchase receipt, in case you need to request service. Apple may ask for the device serial number or plan agreement number when you contact support.
Step 1: Have your AppleCare agreement number ready before registration. Step 2: Visit the AppleCare registration website. Step 3: Follow the prompts to complete the registration process, including entering your AppleCare agreement number, device serial number, and verifying personal information.
Benefits of AppleCare+ for your iPhone
AppleCare+ extends your iPhone's warranty and provides Apple-certified repairs using genuine parts. It covers accidental damage, such as drops and spills, though a service fee applies per incident. You also receive priority access to Apple's technical support team. For comparison, carrier plans like T-Mobile insurance may have a different T-Mobile insurance phone replacement cost structure, but AppleCare+ keeps repairs within Apple's own service network.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add AppleCare to my phone?
You can add AppleCare+ to your iPhone within 60 days of purchase through the Settings app under General > AppleCare & Warranty, or by visiting an Apple Store.
What is AppleCare and why do I need it?
AppleCare+ is Apple's extended warranty and technical support service that covers accidental damage and provides priority access to Apple experts, helping protect your device beyond the standard limited warranty.
How can I check if my phone has AppleCare coverage?
Check your coverage status by going to Settings > General > About and looking under the warranty section, or by entering your serial number on Apple's coverage check website.
How much does AppleCare cost and what does it cover?
AppleCare+ costs vary by iPhone model and are paid either upfront or monthly. It covers accidental damage incidents like cracked screens and liquid damage, subject to a service fee per incident, and extends hardware repair coverage and technical support.
Can I transfer AppleCare+ to a new iPhone?
Yes, AppleCare+ is transferable. If you upgrade or replace your iPhone, you can transfer the remaining coverage to your new device by contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store.
Can I cancel AppleCare+ and get a refund?
You can cancel within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. After 30 days, you may receive a prorated refund based on the remaining months of coverage. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to request a cancellation.
What types of accidental damage does AppleCare+ cover?
AppleCare+ covers accidental damage from drops, spills, and cracked screens. Each incident requires a service fee, and coverage includes up to two incidents over the plan's term.
