Best Buy 3GS insurance

Best Buy is planning to extend its insurance options to the iPhone 3GS, say people close to the matter. When the phone goes on sale through the retailer on June 19th, beginning at 10AM, buyers should have the option of attaching Black Tie Protection, which alongside conventional issues can cover various forms of accidental damage, such as drops and spills. Apple's two-year AppleCare warranty omits much of that coverage, and AT&T has refused to provide any form of insurance.

Should an iPhone not be instantly repairable or replaceable under Black Tie, Best Buy is said to be ready with temporary phones, which can be used until a fixed device arrives in three days or less. If defects result in a phone returning four times in a row, anti-lemon coverage takes effect.

The iPhone insurance is expected to be considerably more expensive than usual however, costing $15 per month, rather than the $7 to $10 for most cellphones. A year's worth of coverage becomes $180, nearly as much as a 16GB 3GS. The surcharge is thought to be related to the unsubsidized prices of an iPhone, which can run as high as $699 for a new 32GB model.

by MacNN Staff