Apple will reportedly start charging iOS users if they seek online support when their device is no longer its warranty period.
While many iOS users may consider AppleCare plans to be quite expensive, it seems that it's a preferable alternative to what Apple has planned. According to a new report, the Cupertino company is looking to implement new payment systems for customers who seek online support once their iOS hardware is no longer in warranty.
"Apple is about to begin charging users outside of their warranty for online chat support using a new web payment system it recently developed," reports Apple-centric publication 9to5Mac. "Sources familiar with the project say Apple is currently expecting to launch the new paid chat support, which will also let customers schedule repairs and replacements online, as early as next week."
Compared to AppleCare prices, this new system may not be the cheapest alternative.
According to 9to5Mac, users who need support for their device but are no longer covered by warranty can either choose to purchase a single incident support for online chat assistance, or purchase an extended AppleCare warranty. The first variant will cost $19, which is quite a lot for a single chat support session.
Another option, meanwhile, will apparently allow users to request an exception from the fee, in which case they would have to motivate why they think they shouldn't pay the out-of-warranty support fee. Apple will seemingly waive the fee for "iCloud issues as accidental damage cases where users just want to setup a repair or replacement via chat," according to the report.
Apple has yet to officially announce the launch of this new service, but 9to9Mac claims that it could happen as soon as next week. If this turns out to be true, it might be a good idea to invest in AppleCare support rather than face heftier fees if your device is no longer in warranty. Apple devices may be high-end and in great demand, but they're not exactly the most durable gadgets out there.
As always, however, it is advisable to take things with a grain of salt until official confirmation. If Apple does indeed announce this new out-of-warranty payment plan, we'll make sure to tell you all about it as soon as we know more.
