Apple Watch Battery Warranty: What’s Covered, What’s Not, and When You Get a Free Replacement

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Apple Watch Battery Warranty: 

If your Apple Watch battery is draining fast, you may be wondering:

“Will Apple replace my battery for free under warranty — or do I need AppleCare+?”

Many Apple Watch users are confused about battery warranties vs AppleCare. This guide breaks it all down in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

What Is Apple Watch Battery Warranty?

The Apple Watch battery warranty is a part of Apple’s standard warranty, which comes automatically when you purchase your watch.

It covers the battery only if it has a manufacturing defect, not if it loses capacity through normal use.

What’s included:

  • Defective batteries from manufacturing

  • Internal hardware faults that affect battery performance

What’s not included:

  • Natural battery aging

  • Damage from drops, spills, or misuse

  • Issues caused by third-party chargers or unauthorized repairs

Is Apple Watch Battery Warranty the Same as Apple Warranty?

No — the battery warranty is just a part of the standard Apple Warranty, which comes with every Apple Watch.

  • Apple Warranty = 1-year limited hardware coverage

  • Battery Warranty = only covers defects, not natural wear

So, while the battery warranty exists, it doesn’t promise free replacement if your battery degrades over time.

Is Apple Watch Battery Warranty the Same as AppleCare?

No — but this is mostly a naming confusion.

AppleCare is simply Apple’s official name for the standard warranty that comes automatically with your Apple Watch.

  • It covers manufacturing defects, including battery defects.

  • If your battery fails or drops below Apple’s threshold during this period, AppleCare handles the replacement.

In short:

Battery Warranty = Part of AppleCare (the default standard warranty you already get)

Many people confuse AppleCare with AppleCare+, but they are different (see next section).

Is Apple Watch Battery Warranty the Same as AppleCare+?

No — AppleCare+ is a paid, optional plan that adds coverage the standard warranty does not.

  • AppleCare+ extends the warranty period

  • Covers accidental damage (drops, spills, cracks)

  • Includes battery replacement if the battery capacity drops below 80%, even due to normal wear

Without AppleCare+, Apple will only replace defective batteries, not naturally degraded ones.

Apple Watch Battery Warranty vs AppleCare+: The Real Difference

Feature Standard Apple Warranty (AppleCare) AppleCare+
Duration 1 year 2–3 years (depending on plan)
Battery Replacement Only if defective Free if battery health < 80%
Accidental Damage Not covered Covered (service fee applies)
Technical Support 90 days Extended support included

Key takeaway: AppleCare+ is the extended plan with extra benefits, while AppleCare (standard warranty) is included automatically.

Does Apple Replace Apple Watch Batteries for Free?

Yes — but only under certain conditions:

  • The battery must have a manufacturing defect

  • Or, under AppleCare+, the battery health must drop below 80%

  • Out-of-warranty or naturally degraded batteries without AppleCare+ are not free

How to Check Your Apple Watch Battery Health


Step 1: Open Settings → Battery → Battery Health

Step 2: Look at Maximum Capacity (%):

  • 100–90% → Normal

  • 89–81% → Aging

  • ≤ 80% → Eligible for free replacement under AppleCare+

Tip: Checking battery health regularly helps you decide whether AppleCare+ is worth it.

Apple Watch Battery Replacement Cost Without Warranty


If you don’t have AppleCare+ and are out of warranty:

Should You Buy AppleCare+ Just for Battery Coverage?

Yes, if:

  • You use your Apple Watch daily

  • You have GPS + Cellular models that drain faster

  • You want peace of mind for accidental damage

No, if:

  • You are a light user

  • You don’t mind paying for battery replacement if needed

AppleCare+ is a financial safety net for heavy users or those who want worry-free coverage.

Final Takeaway

  • Standard Apple warranty (AppleCare) covers defective batteries only

  • AppleCare+ extends coverage and replaces batteries for free if they drop below 80%

  • Knowing the difference saves you money and frustration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Q: Does Apple replace my battery after 80%?
A: Only with AppleCare+. Standard warranty replaces batteries only if defective.

Q: Can Apple deny a battery service request?
A: Yes, if the battery degradation is due to normal wear or accidental damage outside AppleCare+.

Q: Is battery swelling covered under warranty?
A: Only if it’s a manufacturing defect or recall program applies.

Q: What happens after the first year if I don’t buy AppleCare+?
A: You’ll need to pay for battery replacements out-of-pocket.


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