Apple Introduces AppleCare One: A Subscription-Based Device Protection Plan for Multiple Apple Devices
Apple introduces a fresh AppleCare service, offering coverage for diverse electronic devices.
Apple has entered the subscription-based device protection market with the launch of AppleCare One, a service designed to cover multiple Apple devices under a single monthly fee. Starting at $19.99 for up to three devices, AppleCare One offers a cost-effective and convenient solution for Apple users with multiple devices.
Unlike rivals like Samsung Care+ and third-party providers such as Asurion or SquareTrade, AppleCare One's plans cover multiple devices, including iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple Watch, under one plan. This bundled approach could save users approximately $10 a month compared to purchasing separate AppleCare+ plans for multiple devices.
The cost of AppleCare One for an iPhone, iPad, and MacBook individually is approximately $9.99, $7.99, and $12.99 monthly, respectively, totaling over $30. However, with AppleCare One, additional devices can be protected for $5.99 per month each. This makes it a more affordable option for those who own more than three Apple devices.
AppleCare One includes benefits such as unlimited accidental damage repairs, battery service, 24/7 priority tech support, mail-in repair service, and flexibility to swap or add devices in the plan. It also offers theft and loss protection for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.
Compared to Samsung Care+, which typically covers individual devices like smartphones and wearables with options for accidental damage, theft, and mechanical breakdowns, AppleCare One’s main differentiators are the multi-device coverage under one subscription and the ability to cover older devices beyond the original warranty periods. Samsung Care+ pricing depends on the device and type of coverage, often billed per device rather than bundled.
Third-party providers usually offer device protection plans that cover multiple brands and devices but often with limitations such as deductibles, service fees, or restricted coverage terms. Their pricing can be competitive but typically lacks the deep integration, convenience, or priority support found in brand-specific plans like AppleCare One or Samsung Care+.
AppleCare One is currently only available in the U.S., with broader international rollout plans yet to be detailed. Samsung Care+, on the other hand, has wider global availability, while third-party plans vary widely in coverage extent depending on the provider and region.
In summary, AppleCare One offers a compelling option for Apple users with multiple devices, with its multi-device coverage, deep integration, and priority support. Samsung Care+ and third-party plans maintain their individual device focus with broader device brand coverage but less multi-device bundling and integration.
As AppleCare One has just launched in the U.S., comparison data on international availability and customer experience outside Apple’s ecosystem is limited at this time. AppleCare One is part of Apple's services business, alongside iCloud+, Apple Music, and the Apple One bundle, which brought in a record $26.6 billion last quarter.
[1] AppleCare One FAQ [2] AppleCare One Pricing [3] AppleCare One Overview [4] AppleCare One Support
- Apple users interested in personal-finance management might find the cost-effective subscription-based device protection plan, AppleCare One, appealing as it offers a single monthly fee to cover multiple Apple devices.
- Consumers who enjoy shopping for lifestyle-oriented gadgets such as smartphones and wearables, like smartwatches, can benefit from AppleCare One, which provides protection for these devices under a bundled approach.
- In addition to the technology sphere, AppleCare One can impact the home-and-garden and business segments, as its protection extends to MacBook devices often used in these areas.
- Social-media enthusiasts might appreciate the priority tech support offered by AppleCare One, ensuring their devices work efficiently and harmoniously, enhancing their digital communication experience.
- Those seeking entertainment on their Apple devices can also benefit from this service, with AppleCare One providing support that helps maintain optimal performance for smooth streaming and gaming experiences.
- Although third-party providers offer device protection plans for various brands and devices, users who prefer the deep integration and priority support found in brand-specific plans like AppleCare One or Samsung Care+ may find them more attractive for their personal-finance considerations.
