iPhone and Apple Watch users beware! A recent report by 9to5Mac suggests a significant shift in Apple’s warranty policy. According to the report, hairline cracks on these devices will no longer be covered under the standard one-year warranty.

While the standard warranty has never explicitly covered “cosmetic damage” like scratches, dents, or broken plastic, there was a grey area for single hairline cracks on screens. Previously, these cracks, absent any spiderwebbing or obvious impact point, were sometimes considered screen defects and potentially covered for free repairs. However, individual experiences reportedly varied depending on the specific Apple Store or repair shop visited.

The new policy, as reported by 9to5Mac, instructs Apple Stores and authorized service providers to classify all hairline cracks as accidental damage. This means that if you have a hairline crack on your iPhone or Apple Watch screen, you’ll be responsible for the repair costs.

For iPhones outside of warranty, screen repairs can range from $129 for older models to a hefty $379 for the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max. Thankfully, AppleCare+ can significantly reduce these costs to a flat $29 for any iPhone model.

Apple Watch repairs present a more confusing picture. While Apple’s repair estimate website doesn’t explicitly list screen repairs, categorizing them under “other damage”, costs can vary significantly, ranging from $249 to a staggering $800 depending on the Apple Watch model. AppleCare+ again offers substantial savings, bringing those costs down to a more manageable $69 to $79.

This policy change is sure to impact many iPhone and Apple Watch users. While some may argue that hairline cracks are indeed accidental damage, previously there was a chance of these repairs being covered under warranty, especially if the cause of the crack was unclear. With the new policy, the burden of proof now falls entirely on the customer.

If you own an iPhone or Apple Watch, it’s important to be aware of this policy change. Consider investing in a protective case to minimize the risk of cracks, or explore AppleCare+ coverage to potentially offset repair costs if a hairline crack does appear.