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Apple has extended its repair policy for first-gen Apple Watch units with detached backs

By Kaloyan C.

Updated: Jul 12, 2017, 6:12 AM

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A number of users of the first-gen Apple Watch (not Series 1, mind you) have been experiencing a hardware issue where their device's back cover falls off with ease. But while the problem doesn't seem to have affected that high a number of users, Apple has nevertheless quietly extended its free repair deadline to up to three years after purchase.

I sure hope Apple uses better glue for their cars than they do for their watches. pic.twitter.com/JkIThwC5B7
— John Gruber (@gruber) October 3, 2016

And when we say "quietly," we mean it: it appears the extension hasn't been publicized anywhere since coming into effect last year, and has only surfaced now via an internal memo obtained by MacRumors:

Apple has determined that under certain conditions on some Apple Watch (1st generation) devices the back cover may separate from the watch case. Apple will service eligible devices free of charge. Apple will authorize coverage for three (3) years from the date of purchase.

Or in other words, Apple will repair devices with detached back covers free of charge, regardless of whether their warranty has expired or not. This applies to not just the regular Apple Watch, but also the Sport, Edition, and Hermès models. And since some users online have reported getting charged for such a repair, they're encouraged to contact Apple Support to request a refund.

And as pointed out by The Verge, this isn't the first time the Apple Watch has had its service policy extended in this way: back in April, following an issue with swelling batteries which made the display protrude, Apple extended the free fix deadline for affected units up to three years as well.