When you invest in a new Apple device, it’s tempting to think, “It won’t happen to me!” but accidents do occur, and technology can falter. With various protection plans available such as AppleCare and Verizon’s insurance, the question is, which one provides the best coverage?
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into these two insurance options, analyzing their features, costs, and overall benefits. But before diving in, you might find useful and important to understand how to handle unidentified calls that can occasionally plague your phone usage.
AppleCare and Verizon Insurance in a Nutshell
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let’s first define what these two insurance plans entail.
AppleCare+ is Apple’s own protection plan, designed to cover technical support, hardware protection, and up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months.
On the other hand, Verizon Insurance, specifically their Total Mobile Protection (TMP), is an insurance plan provided by Verizon, one of the largest telecom companies in the US. It covers device malfunction, theft, loss, and accidental damage.
Coverage Comparison
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ is more than just an extended warranty. The service includes:
- Two years of technical support and hardware coverage, including parts and labor.
- Accidental damage coverage for up to two incidents every 12 months, subject to a service fee.
- Coverage for both your device and included accessories like your power adapter and headphones.
- Express Replacement Service, meaning Apple will send you a replacement device before you send your faulty device back to them.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
Verizon TMP offers:
- Coverage for loss, theft, and accidental damage.
- Extended warranty after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
- Unlimited claims for device malfunction.
- Up to three claims per year for loss, theft, or accidental damage.
- Next-day device replacement.
- Tech Coach support, providing fast answers to your tech questions.
Cost Comparison
AppleCare+
For an iPhone 13 Pro (as of 2023), AppleCare+ costs $9.99 per month or $199 for two years. Each accidental damage incident is subject to a service fee of $29 for screen damage or $99 for any other damage.
Verizon TMP
Verizon charges $15 per month for TMP, which equates to $360 over two years. The deductible for screen repair is $29, while other repairs or replacements can range from $99 to $249 depending on the device.
The Verdict: Which Protection Plan Should You Choose?
Deciding between AppleCare+ and Verizon TMP comes down to your personal needs, the device you’re insuring, and how accident-prone you are.
If you’re someone who rarely has accidents with your devices, then AppleCare+ might be a better option. It offers a lower monthly cost and provides excellent coverage for technical issues and hardware failures.
However, if you’re prone to losing or having your device stolen, or if you have a track record of multiple accidents per year, Verizon’s TMP could be a better choice. Despite the higher monthly cost, it offers coverage for loss and theft, which AppleCare+ does not.
As you consider your options between AppleCare and Verizon Insurance, you may also want to explore some of the top-tier devices on the market today to decide which protection plan best suits your chosen device.
Additional Services
Now that we’ve covered the basics of AppleCare+ and Verizon’s Total Mobile Protection (TMP), let’s examine some of the additional services each plan offers.
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ also includes 24/7 priority access to Apple Experts via chat or phone. This is incredibly beneficial for those who frequently have technical questions or require assistance with their Apple devices.
Another unique feature of AppleCare+ is Apple-certified repair or replacement. If your device gets damaged, Apple ensures that it will be repaired or replaced with authentic Apple parts, maintaining the quality and functionality of your device.
AppleCare+ also extends coverage to software support. This means assistance with iOS, iCloud, and Apple-branded iOS apps, connecting to wireless networks, and questions about FaceTime, Messages, and more.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
Verizon’s TMP shines with its extended coverage for multiple devices. You can cover up to three eligible devices on your account. If you have several devices or a family to worry about, TMP might be a more economical option.
TMP also provides security features through the Verizon Mobile Security app. This includes protection against viruses, malware, and suspicious websites. Plus, if your device is lost or stolen, you can lock and erase it to protect your information.
Verizon’s TMP also includes Tech Coach support, which provides fast answers to your tech and device questions. It’s a useful feature, especially for those who need help beyond just Apple devices.
Flexibility and Availability
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ is available for not only the iPhone but also the iPad, iPod, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, HomePod, and even Apple’s Pro Display XDR.
Apple allows you to purchase AppleCare+ with your new device or within 60 days of your device purchase. However, if you’re buying after the point of sale, a remote diagnostic test is required, or you’ll need to bring the device to an Apple Store for inspection.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
Verizon’s TMP is only available for devices activated on a Verizon Wireless line. You can enroll within 30 days of activating a new device, upgrading, or switching to Verizon.
Customer Satisfaction
Both AppleCare+ and Verizon’s TMP have generally high customer satisfaction ratings. Apple is renowned for its superior customer service, and users often praise the convenience of Apple Store Genius Bar appointments.
Verizon, on the other hand, has a more mixed customer service reputation. However, its customers often appreciate the broader coverage, especially for loss and theft, and the ability to cover multiple devices under one plan.
Understanding Deductibles and Claim Limits
While we’ve touched upon the cost of AppleCare+ and Verizon’s Total Mobile Protection (TMP), there’s more to these plans’ financial aspect. Specifically, the deductibles and claim limits each insurance option imposes can influence your decision.
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ allows for two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months, each subject to a service fee (or deductible) of $29 for screen damage or $99 for any other accidental damage. However, there is no limit to claims for defects covered by the standard warranty, like battery or mechanical issues.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
With Verizon’s TMP, you can make up to three claims per year for loss, theft, or accidental damage. The deductible depends on the specific device but can range from $29 for screen repair to $249 for other damages, loss, or theft.
The ability to make three claims per year as opposed to AppleCare+’s two can be a game-changer for some users. If you’re prone to mishaps or concerned about losing your device, the extra claim and theft/loss coverage can provide peace of mind.
Comparing Repair and Replacement Services
When you need a repair, time is often of the essence. How do AppleCare+ and Verizon’s TMP stack up in this regard?
AppleCare+
With AppleCare+, you have multiple service options:
- Mail-in service: Apple sends a prepaid shipping box to send your device to an Apple Repair Center.
- Carry-in service: Bring your device to an Apple Store or other Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Express Replacement Service: Apple sends you a replacement device before you send your faulty device back to them.
It’s also crucial to stay informed about common technical issues that can arise, such as the often-encountered problem that affects the updating of the Mail app on iPhones.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
Verizon offers two primary options for damaged devices:
- Next-day device replacement: Once your claim is approved, a replacement device is shipped to you.
- Repair at select locations: Verizon partners with uBreakiFix, enabling you to get your device repaired at one of their locations.
Both offer robust repair and replacement services, but AppleCare+’s Express Replacement Service stands out for its convenience and speed.
International Travel Considerations
If you frequently travel abroad, this may factor into your decision.
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ provides global repair coverage. You can get service and support for your covered Apple device in any country where Apple or its Apple Authorized Service Providers offer AppleCare+.
Verizon Total Mobile Protection (TMP)
While Verizon’s TMP does provide coverage for loss, theft, and damage that occurs while traveling, the replacement devices may not be shipped internationally. You would have to wait until you return to the U.S. or have it shipped to a U.S. address.
Final Words
Choosing the right protection plan for your device is crucial. Both AppleCare+ and Verizon TMP have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Weigh the costs, the coverage, and your own habits before making a decision.
