In a world of smartphones that can cost $1,449, the question must be asked: What should you do about protecting your investment?
I find it kind of amazing the top-level iPhone XS Max costs more than the entry-level Macbook Pro ($1,449 vs. $1,299).
Of course, I don’t carry my Macbook Pro around in my back pocket every day the way I do my iPhone.
So what’s the best way to keep your phone safe? Probably a combination of methods.
Exterior protection
I started with a case.
Because I preordered the iPhone XS Max, which is a unique size, the case options were limited.
I knew Apple would have leather and silicone cases available on launch day, but I decided to look online to see what I could get delivered.
I ended up buying a $10 clear DGtle silicone case from Amazon to protect my new phone until I could find a permanent case.
As luck would have it, I placed the order Sept. 16 and the case was delivered on launch day, Sept. 21.
So I unboxed the new phone and put it directly into the case, which made me feel much better.
I expect hundreds of new case choices to show up in the next month or two.
I also made a trip to my local Best Buy to buy a glass screen protector. There are people who think I’m wasting money, but I know what makes me feel safe.
Extended warranty
I didn’t buy the warranty from my phone company, but I am seriously considering adding AppleCare+ to my new iPhone.
As smartphones go up in price, AppleCare+ has gone up as well.
AppleCare+ for the XS or XS Max costs $199, but for the first time Apple is offering to let customers pay for the coverage in $9.99 monthly installments.
The coverage is for two years and up to two incidents of accidental damage.
Crack a screen and you can get it replaced for $29. Any other type of damage can be fixed for $99.
If you don’t opt for AppleCare+ when you purchase your new iPhone, you can take your phone to an Apple store within 60 days and they’ll add it for you after they examine the phone to make sure it’s in working order.
There are other warranty options. SquareTrade offers coverage for any phone for $8.99 per month with a $29 to $149 deductible depending on the claim.
Of course, I know plenty of people who carry their phones around with no protection. The choice is yours. I’ve almost always carried my phones in a case, and I’ve yet to crack a screen (knock on wood).
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Jim Rossman writes for The Dallas Morning News. He may be reached at jrossman@dallasnews.com.
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