iPhone Duo AppleCare: Why I'm Getting It

Quick summary: What will it cost you to fix an iPhone Duo if you skip AppleCare? After going through Apple’s pricing, my answer is simple: if you’re buying any folding phone, get insurance.

Key takeaways

• AppleCare runs about $20 a month or $200 a year, with an upfront option too.
• Theft or loss costs up to $149 to replace.
• Repair costs I went over include $49 for the cover layer, $199 for back glass, $379 for the outer display, and $509 for the outer display plus back glass.
• The $20-a-month plan covers three devices, which makes it easier to justify.

The prices

AppleCare pricing for the iPhone Duo is manageable: as much as $149 if it’s lost or stolen, and less for other claims. You pay around $20 a month or $200 a year, or more upfront. Repair prices:

• Cover layer: $49
• Back glass: $199. With a case, I can’t remember the last time I broke a back.
• Outer display: $379
• Outer display and back glass: $509

Why I think it’s worth it

Say you break the outer display 12 to 16 months in. At $20 a month, what you’d have paid in AppleCare is getting close to the cost of that one repair. The $20 plan also covers three devices, and if you’re buying this phone, you probably have other Apple gear like a MacBook or Watch to put on it. It feels like a tax on the phone, but peace of mind is worth a lot.

Foldables vs regular phones

I’ve said it before: if you’re getting any folding phone, get insurance. With a regular slab phone, you’re probably fine as an adult with a good case and screen protector. Maybe insure a kid’s phone.

Final thoughts

Are you getting AppleCare, and are you paying monthly, yearly or upfront? Let me know in the comments.

• iPhone Duo at Best Buy