Apple has silently reduced the price of its AppleCare+ extended warranty and technical support package for the M1-powered MacBook Air and Pro models. The company already bundles a year’s worth of limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary technical support for its Mac hardware, but the AppleCare+ package extends that coverage and also throws accidental damage protection into the mix. Taking advantage of Apple’s extended after-sales service package is relatively simple and can be purchased as an add-on from the official Apple store or an authorized retail partner, such as Amazon and Best Buy.
Apple launched the first of the new M1 MacBook models late last year and the biggest change was the move to a chip designed by Apple. It also marked Apple’s return to the ARM architecture after remaining faithful to the x86 ecosystem championed by Intel for over a decade. Thanks to the new chip design, Apple achieved a significant boost in battery life as well as raw processing power on its new breed of MacBook notebooks.
The Apple Care+ bundle for the M1 MacBook Air now costs $199, down from the usual $249. When it comes to the 13-inch Macbook Pro, the cost for the M1 variant is $249. Prior to the price cut, it was listed at $269. For reference, Apple's price cut only applies to MacBook models powered by the in-house M1 silicon, with even the 2020 Intel-powered MacBook models unable to take advantage of the lower cost. Due to this, the price of AppleCare+ for the Intel-driven 13-inch MacBook Pro remains unchanged at $269. While the reduced price has already gone into effect in multiple regions, it is worth keeping in mind that the lower cost is currently only available from Apple and not via third-party channels in the U.S.
What's Included With AppleCare+?
Apple Care+ includes priority access to the company’s technical support team as well as coverage for software and hardware issues. Apple promises round-the-clock communication with its support staff via chat or phone, and worldwide repair coverage, whether by mail or in-person at an Apple Store or authorized retail partner. Apple Care+ covers issues related to the device itself as well as components including the battery, and even the bundled accessories too. Apple will charge a subsidized service fee of $99 for covering a maximum of two incidents of accidental damage to the screen and chassis, while any other internal damage will cost $299 to repair. Apple's after-sales service package also includes software assistance related to macOS, in-house products such as iCloud and Final Cut Pro, and even connectivity problems.
For those who purchased the Apple Care+ bundle at the older price, they can get in touch with Apple support to cancel their subscription and purchase it again at the new price, according to MacRumors. However, it is unclear how far back purchases can be while still qualifying for cancellation and re-purchasing at the lower price. Officially, Apple's support terms dictate an AppleCare+ package should be purchased within 60 days of buying a new Mac.