Yes, AppleCare+ does cover a cracked screen, but it is categorized as accidental damage and requires a service fee.
A cracked screen (front) is specifically eligible for coverage under your AppleCare+ plan. This type of repair utilizes an incident of accidental damage from handling, allowing you to get your device repaired for a significantly reduced cost compared to out-of-warranty service.
How AppleCare+ Addresses Screen Damage
AppleCare+ is an extended warranty and insurance plan that provides comprehensive coverage for your Apple devices, including iPhones. When it comes to screen damage, it offers peace of mind by covering incidents that standard warranties do not.
- Accidental Damage from Handling (ADH): Screen cracks, shatters, and other forms of display damage caused by drops, spills, or other unforeseen accidents fall under ADH. AppleCare+ plans typically include a set number of ADH incidents (e.g., two incidents every 12 months) that you can use.
- Reduced Service Fee: Instead of paying the full cost of an out-of-warranty screen replacement, which can be considerably expensive, AppleCare+ subscribers pay a much lower service fee per incident.
Associated Costs and Fees
While AppleCare+ covers cracked screens, it's important to understand the associated costs. These are standard service fees, not the full price of a new screen.
| Repair Type | AppleCare+ Service Fee |
|---|---|
| Screen-only damage (front) | A fixed fee |
| Other accidental damage | A different fixed fee |
Note: Specific service fees can vary by region and device model. Always check Apple's official support pages for the most current pricing.
Benefits of AppleCare+ for Screen Damage
Subscribing to AppleCare+ offers several key advantages when dealing with a cracked screen:
- Cost Savings: The service fee is substantially lower than the cost of an out-of-warranty repair.
- Convenience: Access to Apple-certified service and genuine Apple parts ensures high-quality repairs.
- Extended Coverage: Beyond standard warranty, AppleCare+ extends your technical support and hardware coverage.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that accidental damage, like a cracked screen, is covered provides reassurance.
How to Get Your Screen Repaired
If your iPhone screen is cracked and you have AppleCare+, the process to get it repaired is straightforward:
- Check Your Coverage: Verify your AppleCare+ plan status and remaining accidental damage incidents through Apple's website or the Settings app on your device.
- Contact Apple Support: Initiate a repair request online, by phone, or by visiting an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Choose a Service Option:
- Mail-in service: Send your device to an Apple Repair Center.
- Carry-in service: Bring your device to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Express Replacement Service: (For eligible devices and regions) Apple sends you a replacement device immediately, and you send your damaged device back.
- Pay the Service Fee: Once the repair is approved, you will pay the applicable AppleCare+ service fee.
- Receive Your Repaired/Replaced Device: Apple will repair or replace your device and return it to you.
Important Considerations
- Number of Incidents: AppleCare+ plans typically provide a limited number of accidental damage incidents (e.g., two incidents every 12 months). Be mindful of how many you have used.
- Other Damage: If the damage extends beyond just the screen (e.g., a bent chassis, liquid damage alongside a cracked screen), it might fall under "other accidental damage," which could have a different service fee.
- Genuine Parts: Always ensure repairs are performed by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider to guarantee the use of genuine Apple parts, which preserves device functionality and future warranty status.
