Learn 10 Secrets to Shopping at the Apple Store

No more. “We don’t sell refurbished [items] in the shop,” an Apple representative recently confirmed to me. In any case, not in the back. Apple.com, on the other hand, sells certified refurbished items. Remember that “refurbished” does not always imply “repaired.” For example, you might obtain a Mac that was an open-box item or a return. And here’s the best part: The refurb has the same one-year limited warranty as new Apple goods.

 

You do not have to get AppleCare right away.

Some individuals are afraid of computer failures (like the ’90s or something) and rush out to buy extended warranties. AppleCare or AppleCare+ extended warranties provide two more years of limited warranty service in Apple’s instance (including phone support). The cost of AppleCare for a MacBook Pro is $249. Ouch

Wait if you’re that person. That one-year limited warranty that comes with the item at no extra cost? It’s sturdy. If you’re still nervous after a year (or if you’ve experienced problems), consider obtaining extended coverage. Apple will gladly sell you the extended coverage afterward if you are still within the one-year limited warranty coverage window.

Reservations are accepted at the Genius Bar.

Warranty or no warranty, people go to the Apple Store’s Genius Bar for assistance when they have questions about how to use an Apple gadget or, worse if there is an issue with it. The certified Geniuses on duty won’t be able to fix everything right away, but you’ll usually get a free 10-minute consultation. You can go in at any time and sign up to visit a Genius with the iPad-carrying greeter. To avoid a long wait, it’s best to reserve either online or by phone ahead of time.

By the way, Apple Stores also provide free classes on topics ranging from Apple Watch Fundamentals to iPhone Videography. Sign up ahead of time.

 

You can exchange an old device for a gift card.

Apple is big on recycling, and you can even make a buck in the shape of an Apple Store gift card when you’re ready to get rid of your old Apple device. (A store representative can also assist you through the process of erasing the data on your device.) Even if Apple won’t compensate you for a broken iPod you discovered in the back of your closet; its Renew program promises to recycle the device ethically.

Apple is primarily interested in later-generation laptops, iPads, iPhones (4s and newer), and similar devices. So, for example, based on the specifics of my iPhone 6s, I could get a $300 Apple Store gift card for it – which is nice because I believe I still owe $300 on it; nevertheless, I wouldn’t have a phone.

The Cash Register Is Covered Up

An Apple Store does not have a standard cash register on the counter. It exists, but it is hidden from view. An employee will instead swipe your credit card in a handheld reader and email the receipt to you. Quick and simple. You can also use Apple Pay, an Apple Store gift card, or cash to pay (if you just robbed a bank).

Do you require a paper receipt? Then, your salesperson will reach under the table and suddenly pluck it out of thin air. That is the Apple user experience.