Apple on Tuesday added a new aftermarket service option for its quickly expanding line of headphones. Called "AppleCare+ for Headphones," the extended warranty adds two years of coverage and two incidents of accidental coverage for a fairly reasonable price.
Available for purchase through the online Apple store, AppleCare+ for Headphones offers the same two-year, two-incident coverage of other AppleCare+ offerings for a one-time fee of $29.
When purchased within 60 days of a qualifying headphone, such as AirPods or Powerbeats Pro, Apple's hardware repair coverage moves from the usual limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary support to a total of three years with anytime "priority" support. In addition, the extended warranty allows for two cases of accidental damage, with each repair or replacement costing $29 plus taxes.
Repair, replacement, parts and labor are covered by AppleCare+ and can be applied to AirPods, Beats earphones or Beats headphones, internal batteries and the included USB charging cable. Apple notes batteries that retain less than 80% of their charge qualify for service. Customers looking to file a claim can mail their device in to Apple or take it to a nearby Apple store or authorized service provider. Like more expensive AppleCare+ plans for iPhone and iPad, Express Replacement Service is an option.
The new AppleCare+ plan is available for AirPods, Beats EP, Beats Pro, Beats Solo3 Wireless, Beats Studio3 Wireless, BeatsX, Powerbeats Pro and Powerbeats3 Wireless.
Apple's decision to offer a premium warranty service option for its smallest wearables is a welcome change, especially considering past complaints over AirPods battery life. Unfortunately for those who replaced their dead or dying headphone battery, or simply bought a new pair, AppleCare+ cannot be applied retroactively.