AppleCare+ for New iPad Air Costs $69, Same Price as 9.7-Inch iPad and iPad Mini

Despite starting at a higher price of $499, the new 10.5-inch iPad Air released today qualifies for the same $69 tier of AppleCare+ as 9.7-inch iPad and iPad mini models. AppleCare+ for the latest iPad Pro models remains $129.

‌AppleCare‌+ is an optional warranty plan that extends the ‌iPad Air‌'s warranty period to two years from the original purchase date of the device, and adds up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage, each subject to a service fee of $49 plus applicable taxes in the United States. Prices vary elsewhere.

The plan also covers accidental damage to the Apple Pencil for up to two years with a $29 fee plus tax per incident.

‌AppleCare‌+ provides 24/7 priority access to support advisors via online chat or phone for up to two years after the ‌iPad Air‌'s original purchase date. Without the plan, ‌iPad Air‌ owners are covered by Apple's limited one-year warranty and an initial 90 days of complimentary telephone support.

‌AppleCare‌+ for the new ‌iPad Air‌ can also be financed with monthly payments of $3.49 for up to 24 months.

Apple will charge a fee of $249 for accidental damage to the new ‌iPad Air‌ without ‌AppleCare‌+, so as with most forms of insurance, the plan can pay for itself if ever used. ‌AppleCare‌+ must be added within 60 days of purchasing a device.