Apple has implemented policy changes that may benefit its clumsier users. If you’re predisposed toward breaking your iPhone screen, Apple will now accept your smashed iPhone at its retail locations for in-store credit. Even more exciting, Apple has started a pilot program in their Japanese Apple retail locations that means Apple employees will now be able to install screen protectors on iPhone devices.
According to 9to5Mac, the in-store values of devices with cracked display units will be $50 for a 5s, $200 for a 6, and $250 for a 6 Plus. Called the Apple Store Reuse and Recycle iPhone trade-in program, the program will now start accepting older iPhones with damaged cameras, buttons and display glass. Previously, only current generational models, such as the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, were accepted in the program.
With the combination of in-store credit and financing plans, a new iPhone may come out cheaper than the cost of repairing a crack and damaged iPhone. However, in hopes of preventing the damage from even happening to begin with, Apple has instituted a pilot program in their Japanese retail locations that allows Apple employees to install a screen protector on an iPhone in-store.
Previously, due to the difficulty of correctly applying a screen protector, Apple employees were not allowed to. Now, in Japan at least, for the cost of $18.60 for an iPhone 6s to $36.50 for an iPhone 6s Plus, you can have a screen protector film placed on your iPhone by Belkin’s TrueClear Pro machine.
