Keeping track of the exact date when we bought our iPhones or iPods isn't something many of us need to worry about--except when a device needs to be repaired. Then you need to know when it was purchased so you can find out whether it's still covered by warranty or if you'll have to pay for the repair.
Apple makes checking the warranty of any iPod, iPhone, or iPad easy with a warranty checker tool on its website.
- Begin using the warranty checker by going to https://selfsolve.apple.com/agreementWarrantyDynamic.do
- Next, you'll need to enter the serial number of the device whose warranty you want to check. There are two ways to find this:
- In the devices About menu (found in Settings on devices running iOS).
- Sync the device; the serial number will be at the top of the management screen next to the image.
- Enter the serial number of the warranty checker and click the "Continue" button.
- When you do this, you'll see 5 pieces of information:
- The type of device it is
- Whether the device is registered with Apple
- Has telephone support expired or not (free telephone support is often available for a limited time after the device was been purchased; when it expires, telephone support costs per call)
- Is the device still in warranty for repairs and service
- Is the device eligible to have its warranty extended via AppleCare
If the device isn't registered, coverage is expired, or AppleCare is available, click the button to the right of that item to take action.
Now that you know whether your device is still under warranty or not, you can either coordinate a repair using the tools on that page or schedule an appointment to take your device to the Genius Bar at your nearest Apple Store.
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