Increased Battery Repair Cost
Apple Inc. AAPL has announced a price increase for its battery replacement service for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Details of the Price Change
What Happened: The tech giant has upped the battery repair cost for these models by $20, making the new price $119. The cost for battery replacement in the standard and “Plus” models remains the same.
Implications and Trends
This recent move by Apple indicates a shift towards higher prices for battery replacements. It follows a trend set in 2022 when the iPhone 14 battery service cost saw a $30 increase to $99.
Technological Evolution and Customer Impact
Defective batteries are still covered under Apple’s one-year warranty, with replacements free under AppleCare+ plans if the battery has less than 80% of its original capacity. This strategic shift in pricing may raise concerns among Apple users regarding repair costs and device longevity.
Market Response and Future Considerations
Last year saw Apple raise prices for out-of-warranty device repairs, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Additionally, the company began charging for certain Apple Watch battery replacements. With this latest price adjustment, customers are scrutinizing the overall cost of device ownership and maintenance.