New apple store opens, extended iPhone warranty

In brief: Residents of Brazil can now purchase Apple merchandise directly from Apple through a local online store. To celebrate the grand opening of the Brazilian store, Apple is currently offering a free gift bag to any customer who purchases an iPod or Mac before October 20th. Meanwhile, GadgetGuard has announced that it is now offering an extended iPhone warranty. The warranty has two tiers, and covers things left out from Apple's own terms, such as water damage and cracked screens.

After years of waiting, Apple has opened a regionalized online store for residents of Brazil. To celebrate the opening Apple is currently offering a free gift for anyone who purchases an iPod or Mac before October 20th. The gift consists of an exclusive bag, created specifically for the event. Quantities are limited, meaning the offer may run out before the 20th.

A new iPhone warranty is being made available through GadgetGuard, which is providing coverage not available in the default agreement. People must download a free application from the App Store, and sign up for a two-year service plan. Two levels of protection are available: people with an iPhone less than one month old qualify for the Gold-level plan, which costs $5 per month after a $49 activation fee. Devices less than nine months old qualify for the Silver plan, costing $3 per month with $29 activation. The option provides two years of repair or replacement for any hardware failure up to $500, including batteries. The Gold plan adds coverage for regular accidents, water damage, and cracked screens.

by MacNN Staff