The iPhone Upgrade Program from Apple offers a convenient way to get your hands on the latest iPhone every year. Many users considering this program, especially those with Verizon, often ask: “Does AppleCare come with the Verizon upgrade program?”. It’s a crucial question to understand the costs and protection associated with your new iPhone. Let’s break down the details to clarify how AppleCare and Verizon’s options intertwine with the iPhone Upgrade Program.
Demystifying the iPhone Upgrade Program and AppleCare Requirements
Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Program is designed to make upgrading to a new iPhone seamless. Here are the core components to keep in mind:
- 24-Month Installment Loan: The program operates through a 24-month, 0% APR installment loan from Citizens Bank, N.A. This means you’ll be making monthly payments for two years.
- iPhone and Carrier Activation: You must purchase a new iPhone and activate it with one of the participating national carriers. Good news for Verizon customers – Verizon is indeed one of the eligible carriers! Other carriers include AT&T, Boost Mobile, and T-Mobile.
- AppleCare+ for iPhone is Mandatory: To participate in the iPhone Upgrade Program, purchasing AppleCare+ for iPhone is a requirement. This is a key aspect of the program ensuring your device is protected.
Alt text: Apple iPhone displayed showcasing the iPhone Upgrade Program options, emphasizing the mandatory inclusion of AppleCare+.
It’s important to note that while AppleCare+ is required, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is optional. You have the choice to add this enhanced coverage, but it’s not a prerequisite for joining the upgrade program.
AppleCare+ vs. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between these two plans is crucial for making an informed decision:
- AppleCare+ for iPhone (Required): This plan provides comprehensive repair or replacement coverage, including unlimited incidents of accidental damage. For each incident, there’s a service fee: $29 for screen or back glass damage and $99 for other accidental damage, plus applicable tax. This base AppleCare+ is what’s needed for the iPhone Upgrade Program.
- AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss (Optional): This plan builds upon the standard AppleCare+ by adding theft and loss coverage. It also provides unlimited accidental damage protection but includes up to two incidents of theft or loss coverage every 12 months. The service fees are the same for damage, but there’s a $149 deductible for theft or loss incidents. For this plan, you need to have the “Find My” feature enabled on your iPhone.
Alt text: Exterior of a Verizon store, highlighting Verizon as a participating carrier for the Apple iPhone Upgrade Program.
Choosing AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss offers extra peace of mind, especially if you are concerned about losing your iPhone or having it stolen. However, for the basic requirements of the iPhone Upgrade Program through Verizon or any other eligible carrier, standard AppleCare+ is sufficient.
Verizon and the iPhone Upgrade Program: Seamless Integration
For Verizon customers, the iPhone Upgrade Program integrates smoothly. You can:
- Upgrade through Apple: Enroll in the iPhone Upgrade Program directly through Apple, either online or at an Apple Store, and choose Verizon as your carrier during the activation process.
- Activate on Verizon: Ensure you activate your new iPhone purchased through the program with your Verizon account to fulfill the program requirements.
Remember, regardless of whether you are upgrading through Verizon directly (if they offer their own upgrade program, which is separate from Apple’s) or through Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Program with Verizon as your chosen carrier, AppleCare+ remains a mandatory component of Apple’s program.
Conclusion: AppleCare+ is Key to the iPhone Upgrade Program
In summary, to answer the question “Does AppleCare come with Verizon upgrade program?”, when participating in Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Program and choosing Verizon as your carrier, AppleCare+ is a mandatory requirement. While Verizon might have its own upgrade options, within the context of Apple’s program, AppleCare+ is essential. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is an optional addition for enhanced protection. Understanding these distinctions ensures you can confidently navigate your iPhone upgrade and choose the protection plan that best suits your needs and preferences within the Apple ecosystem and with Verizon.
