Planning to buy the iPhone 16? Don’t forget insurance

The highly anticipated launch of the Apple iPhone 16 series is just around the corner. Consumers are reminded that high-cost items like these come with their fair share of risk. 

In an increasingly digitised world, smartphones are the indispensable pocket companions that many South Africans rely on to stay connected. Insurance can provide an all-important safety net for valuable possessions that are used on the go.

With rapid advancements in mobile technology, smartphones have become the Swiss army knives of the digital world, supporting several key functions and transitioning beyond just their use as communication devices. They function as information processing and transfer devices, global positioning and navigation systems, payment processing platforms, photographic tools and task management machines. This high level of functionality has increased the value of smartphones and the risks that come with owning expensive digital devices.

These include accidental damage and theft. Items carried around in a pocket or handbag are more prone to accidental drops, liquid spills, scratches and stains, and repairing the device or replacing it completely, could be a costly activity, especially without insurance.

Smartphones are sadly prime targets for criminals due to their high resale value. In these cases, being left empty-handed and without access to valuable information and contacts can be a serious inconvenience and a financial burden when the item needs to be replaced. 

iPhones come with limited warranties that cover manufacturing defects for a specified period, however, many issues may not surface until after this warranty expires. Insurance acts as an extended warranty, covering unforeseen defects and malfunctions, potentially saving you thousands of rands in repair or replacement costs.

Insurance is a smart decision that ensures your latest device, and other valuables remain protected, accessible and functional.