Apple May Replace Your iPhone XS or XR’s Smart Battery Case (for Free)

If your Smart Battery Case for iPhone XS or XR isn’t working properly, Apple may replace it for free — even if it’s out of warranty.

The Cupertino tech giant this week launched a new replacement program covering Smart Battery Cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR. The program covers models made between January 2019 and October 2019.

Since the Smart Battery Cases in question were launched in January 2019, that covers pretty much every unit produced thus far. It’s likely that Apple fixed the underlying issue in Smart Battery Case models produced after October 2019.

Why?

As for why Apple is launching this program, the company says it has identified a couple of charging issues with the devices. That includes problems with charging the case itself when plugged into power, as well as problems charging the iPhone it’s installed on.

The Cupertino tech giant did note that it isn’t a safety issue, so users shouldn’t be too alarmed about their Smart Battery Cases.

Of course, if you purchased a Smart Battery Case for your 2018 iPhone, it’s likely that your accessory is still under warranty. This program essentially extends that warranty for another year after the date of purchase. So even if your particular model is working fine now, you should be covered in the future as well.

How Does the Replacement Program Work?

• Users will be able to get a free Smart Battery Case replacement at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
• All models and colors are covered under the program, though Apple may only choose to replace models that are specifically affected by the issue.

It’s worth noting that the program doesn’t cover Smart Battery Cases for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max. That suggests that the company hasn’t found an issue with those cases, or that it fixed it during the production process.

The Smart Battery Case itself is a great option for iPhone users, since it integrates tightly with iOS and provides additional battery power without too much additional bulk or weight.

Apple also notes that it will dispose of faulty battery cases in “an environmentally friendly way.”