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Apple might replace your cracked Series 2 or 3 screen for free

If you have an Apple Series 2 or 3 watch with a cracked display, you might qualify for a free repair. This is thanks to a new screen replacement program for certain models.

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Unlike some wearable tech providers, Apple offers repair services. If you are covered by the warranty there is no fee. This doesn’t apply, though if the damage is accidental.

But now, the Cupertino outfit has admitted there is a flaw in certain types of aluminium models that could cause the screen to crack. There aren’t many stories on social media of users experiencing the issue so it’s difficult to gauge how many are affected.

Got a broken Apple Watch 3? You might qualify for a free upgrade!

In an official statement, Apple says it is launching a new free replacement program for affected users with Series 2 and 3 watches. This includes the standard editions, cellular models and Nike+ watches.

For those with a Series 3 device, you will only be covered if you purchased your watch up to September 2019. This could indicate Apple is planning to discontinue the model, or it may have fixed the problem for stock going forward. We’ll probably know more when it launches the Series 5 device at its event on September 10th.

“Apple has determined that, under very rare circumstances, a crack may form along the rounded edge of the screen in aluminum models of an Apple Watch Series 2 or Series 3,” Apple notes on its website.

“The crack may begin on one side and then may continue around the screen as shown in the images below.”

Apple might replace your cracked Series 2 or 3 screen for free
The crack starts on one side but may continue along the edges. | Image source: Apple

Here’s a full list of device eligible for the free repair.

Series and model
Case sizes
Color and material
Sold dates
Apple Watch Series 2
38mm and 42mm
Space gray, gold, rose gold, and silver aluminum
September 2016 – September 2017
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 2
38mm and 42mm
Space gray and silver aluminum
October 2016 – October 2017
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS)

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS+ Cellular)

38mm and 42mm
Space gray, gold, and silver aluminum
September 2017 – September 2019
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 (GPS)

Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 (GPS+ Cellular)

38mm and 42mm
Space gray and silver aluminum
October 2017 – September 2019

If you meet the criteria and are affected, contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Apple Retail Store. You can also head over to Apple’s Get Support page to book an appointment. It will take about 5 business days for the watch to be returned to you from the Apple Repair Center.

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Ivan Jovin

Ivan has been a tech journalist for over 7 years now, covering all kinds of technology issues. He is the guy who gets to dive deep into the latest wearable tech news.

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