iPhone Duo Repair Prices Will Fold Your Bank Account Without AppleCare

Apple's new iPhone Duo, a foldable device, comes with a high price tag that could break the bank, especially without AppleCare coverage. The starting price for the iPhone Duo is $1,999 for the 256GB storage option, but the maximum configuration with 2TB of storage costs $3,199, which is much higher than typical iPhone prices. In comparison, the iPhone Pro starts at $1,199.

AppleCare coverage is an additional cost that becomes important when considering potential repairs. Without AppleCare, the cost to replace a cracked inner display ranges from $999 for a repair directly from Apple, to $49 for cover layer damage, and up to $1,499 for other damages. These are the direct repair costs from Apple, not third-party services. The range of repairs starts at $49 for cover layer damage and goes up to $1,499 for other damages, but the latter's exact scope is unclear.

AppleCare Plus with Theft and Loss costs $20 per month or $200 per year, covering unlimited repairs for accidents like drops and spills, and theft and loss coverage for up to two claims per year. It also includes Express Replacement Service, which provides a new iPhone Duo, avoiding repair wait times. The AppleCare One service costs $20 a month, covering AppleCare Plus for up to three devices and adding a third theft-and-loss coverage event in the 12-month period.

The estimated repair costs with AppleCare range from zero for battery service to $149 for theft or loss. These costs vary from the ones without coverage. Apple's iPhone Duo preorders begin on Friday, with first shipments and store availability set for October 23. The author looks forward to testing the iPhone Duo's performance and durability, and encourages readers to check out hands-on impressions of the new foldable device.