Since an iPad is a critical and required component in many courses (especially for tests and assessments), you should give some consideration to the warranty and insurance coverage so that you can quickly replace or repair a damaged device. Below are some suggestions to help you in this decision.
Disclaimer
ATSU is providing the summary information below to facilitate your evaluation, however be sure to check with the vendor for the most updated information and specifics on their coverage and costs.
Insurance from Apple
Applecare
Every iPad comes with Applecare, a 1-year limited warranty. Applecare is free whether the iPad is purchased from Apple or another retailer and is automatically activated on the day of purchase.
Applecare covers:
- A 1-year limited warranty against defects
- 90 days complimentary phone support
Applecare does not cover:
- Accidental damage
- Protection against theft
Applecare+
Upon purchase or https://getsupport.apple.com
Applecare+ must be purchased within 60 days of purchasing an iPad. The cost is $99. Apple will need to verify your purchase date and confirm that your iPad has no pre-existing damage.
Applecare+ basics:
- Extends the standard one year warranty to two years
- Provides 2 full years of phone service
- Covers the iPad against breakage or water damage for two incidents
- For $49 Apple will exchange a broken or damaged iPad
Applecare+ does not cover:
- Protection against theft
- The cost of mailing if you don’t live near an Apple Retail Store
Retail Insurance (Two examples)
SquareTrade Insurance – 1-888-504-2659
SquareTrade covers drops, spills and malfunctions with free two-way shipping.
- Two year plan $85
- $49 deductible
- Two year plan $99
- No deductible
- Three year plan $105
- $49 deductible
- Three year plan $129
- No deductible
Worth Ave. Group – 1-800-620-2885
Worth Ave. protects your iPad from accidental damage, spills, theft, fire, power surges, natural disasters and vandalism.
- No limit on claims
- Can be purchased any time after you buy your iPad
- Coverage period 1-3 years
- May require a police report or other documentation
Homeowners/renters insurance
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you may be able to cover your iPad through an extension to your existing policy.
Extended credit card protection
Many credit card companies offer extended purchase options which may double or extend the warranty on your iPad.
Self Insured
If you have the funds to replace or repair an iPad within a 24 hour span of time, you may want to consider self insurance as an option. Proximity to repair or replacement resources should be considered when self insuring.