AppleCare Plus may soon say goodbye to multi-year prepaid plans and hello to subscriptions

If you’re buying an Apple device, you’re likely familiar with AppleCare Plus, Apple’s device protection plan. It’s been a popular option to safeguard your tech in case you run into any issues. Currently, Apple offers the ability to purchase a 2- or 3-year prepaid AppleCare Plus plan either online or at physical retail stores within 60 days of buying your device. However, that’s about to change.

According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by Apple expert Mark Gurman, Apple plans to drop the prepaid multi-year AppleCare Plus option at its physical retail stores and on devices. Starting as early as next week, Apple will only offer monthly and annual subscription plans for AppleCare Plus at its stores.

Here’s what you need to know:

What’s changing?

Apple is eliminating the 2- and 3-year prepaid AppleCare Plus plans at physical retail stores and on devices.

Monthly and annual subscription options will still be available for purchase at these locations.

Can you still get a prepaid plan?

Yes, but only online. Apple will continue offering multi-year prepaid plans through its online store.

Why the change?

While Apple hasn’t officially commented on the shift, it seems to align with a broader strategy to eventually move all AppleCare Plus purchases to a subscription-based model. Subscriptions offer flexibility for users and recurring revenue for Apple.

Currently, AppleCare Plus subscription prices range from $2.49 to $24.99 per month, depending on your device. Meanwhile, Google’s alternative, Preferred Care, offers a 2-year plan but limits it to select Fitbit devices. Pixel owners, for example, can only opt for monthly plans.

For now, if you want a prepaid multi-year AppleCare Plus plan, your best bet is to purchase online. But with the shift in strategy, it seems likely Apple is paving the way for an all-subscription future for its device protection services.