AppleCare just became essential — especially if you're buying Apple Watch Ultra

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AppleCare Plus has been given a big upgrade, making it hard to skip

Apple Watch Ultra
(Image credit: Future)

Apple has confirmed that an AppleCare Plus plan now offers unlimited repairs for accidental damage, an upgrade over the protection policy’s previous limit of two repairs within a single calendar year. This surprise announcement is particularly well timed given the imminent release of the iPhone 14, AirPods Pro 2 and in particular the pricey Apple Watch Ultra. 

As spotted by AppleInsider, the Apple Store was recently updated in the wake of the September Apple event with a new banner that reads: “AppleCare Plus now includes unlimited repairs for accidental damage protection.” This banner has appeared across regions with both the U.S. and U.K. version of the Apple Store displaying the message. 

An accidental damage repair will cost you $499 without Apple’s protection policy, which is a steep increase from even the Apple Watch Series 8 which costs between $299 and $399 depending the configuration you opt for. 

However, if you take out a $99 upfront ($4.99 monthly) AppleCare Plus plan, for two years you’ll have unlimited accidental damage protection, and will only have to pay a $79 service fee in the event of your ultra-powerful smartwatch needing repaired. The idea of paying another $99 when you’re already spending $799 on an Apple Watch Ultra may not seem appealing, but it’s an investment that could save you quite a lot of money in the long run. 

Apple has also confirmed AppleCare Plus pricing for the new iPhone 14 range. The standard iPhone 14 will cost $219 for two years ($11.49 monthly), while two years of coverage for the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will cost $269 upfront ($13.49 monthly). Again, while AppleCare Plus might not be instantly appealing at checkout, total peace of mind in the case of accidental damage is arguably worth the extra cost. 

Rory Mellon
Rory Mellon
Senior Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is a Senior Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.