Apple starts offering optional loss and theft protection for newer iPhones

The main downside of AppleCare+, Apple’s extended warranty program, has always been that it’s pretty much worthless if your device is lost or stolen. That’s been the primary factor that steers some people towards getting phone insurance through their carrier. But following today’s introduction of its latest iPhones, Apple is changing things up — and it’s going to start offering optional loss/theft protection.

As detailed on this updated AppleCare+ website, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss protection requires an iPhone to have Find My iPhone turned on in order to be eligible for replacement if lost. This doesn’t seem to be something you can retroactively add to existing AppleCare+ coverage; it’s a separate, more expensive plan that you’d select at the time of purchase (or during the window when you can still add it).

And it’s not cheap.

AppleCare with Theft and Loss pricing:

• iPhone XS and XS Max: $299
• iPhone XR, 8 Plus, 7 Plus: $249
• iPhone 7 and 8: $199

The only difference here is really the new coverage. So if you don’t need that extra measure for peace of mind, you’ll save a lot of money sticking with the standard AppleCare+, which still covers busted screens or other damage.

Those prices above are just to get coverage. Apple is letting customers pay either in one lump some or monthly over 24 months. If your device is misplaced or stolen, a new unit will cost:

• $199 for iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 6S, and iPhone 6
• $229 for iPhone XR, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6S Plus, and iPhone 6 Plus
• $269 for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone X

Nevertheless, adding optional loss and theft protection might make Apple’s own iPhone Upgrade Program more enticing, as the monthly payment includes AppleCare+. Apple says adding loss and theft will cost “from $4.16 more per month” over what you’d be paying normally.