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After customers discovered that Apple intentionally slowed the performance of older iPhone models, there was an uproar. Apple responded and issued an apology. The tech giant then went one step further and dropped the price on replacement batteries that will keep older iPhones running better.
Normally, replacement iPhone batteries cost $79 each, but batteries for certain models are currently on sale for $29. And for customers with AppleCare+ the replacement battery could be free.
But getting a replacement battery and having it installed in your iPhone sounds like a pain, right? Well, here’s exactly what you need to do to get your hands on a discounted new battery and give renewed life to your old iPhone.
1. Check Eligibility
Right now, Apple is offering replacement batteries for iPhone 6 and newer models. That includes iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
2. Back Up Your Data
Before any service appointment, Apple recommends backing up your device. That means connecting it to iCloud wirelessly or to iTunes on your computer and saving a copy of the information on your phone. This way, if anything goes wrong during the appointment, you can restore everything stored on your phone, including those countless pictures of your kids and pets!
3. Prepare For Additional Repairs
In order for Apple to replace the battery, iPhones with cracked screens and other damage may require additional repairs first. This could cost you extra and make your batter replacement take longer.
4a. Book An Appointment At The Apple Store
This is a popular offer, so book your appointment as soon as possible. You can reserve a spot online with Apple’s Genius Bar. However, open appointments are limited so prepare to be flexible. And, it goes without saying, be on time for the appointment or risk losing your precious spot.
4b. Visit Another Retailer (Optional)
Another option is a visit to a third-party retailer like Best Buy. Not all stores may have the exact parts available or offer them at the same price as Apple, so be sure to call ahead and check before dropping in. These stores can price replacement batteries as they wish. As a result, the batteries may cost more than $29.
4c. Mail It In (Optional)
If you can survive without your iPhone for a week, you can send it to Apple for the battery upgrade.
To take advantage of this, select the “Send in for Repair” option on Apple’s support page. Then, choose the product you want to send in and the issue (battery requires service). Next, you’ll see a price estimate and you can choose to drop off the device at UPS or receive a shipping box from Apple.
When I clicked through these options with my own iPhone 6, I received an estimate of $29 and five to nine business days for it to be fixed. With shipping and tax costs, the total came to just under $40.
5. Be Patient
Even if you snag an appointment quickly at the Apple store, you may still have to wait for a battery. Some Apple stores already have waiting lists numbering in the thousands for the replacement batteries. If that’s the case when you go to your local store, they will add you to the waiting list and email you when batteries are back in stock.
You do still have to go in for the initial appointment in order to get on the waiting list. At this time, there’s no way to check battery stock prior to an in-person visit.
6. Don’t Miss Out
Customers who haven’t noticed significant problems with their iPhone may hesitate. If it’s not broken, why fix it, right? Wrong. According to Richard Fisco, Consumer Reports’ head of smartphone testing, this deal is not to be missed. Customers will notice improved battery life and processor speed with the new battery.
Apple will make good on its $29 battery offer through December 2018, so there’s plenty of time to contemplate the upgrade before it’s gone.