iPhone: The Missing Manual, 2nd Edition

Warranty and Repair

The iPhone comes with a one-year warranty. If you buy an AppleCare contract ($70), you're covered for a second year.

Tip

AT&T tech support is free for both years of your contract. They handle questions about your iPhone's phone features.

If, during the coverage period, anything goes wrong that's not your fault, Apple will fix it free. You can either take the phone to an Apple store, which is often the fastest route, or call 800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273) to arrange shipping back to Apple. In general, you'll get the fixed phone back in 3 business days.

Note

Sync the phone before it goes in for repair. The repair process generally erases the phone completely—in fact, Apple very often simply sends you back a new (or refurbished) iPhone instead of your original. In fact, if you're worried that Apple might snoop around, you might want to erase the phone first. (Use the Restore option—Reset: Six Degrees of Desperation.)

Also, don't forget to remove your SIM card (SIM Card Slot) before you send in your broken iPhone—and to put it back in when you get the phone. Don't leave it in the loaner phone. AT&T will help you get a new card if you lose your original, but it's a hassle.

While your phone is in the shop, you can sign up for a loaner iPhone to use in the meantime for $30. Apple will ship it to you, or you can pick one up at the Apple store. Just sync this loaner phone with iTunes, and presto—all of your stuff is right back on it.

You can keep this service phone until seven days ...