Apple Watch 2 Owners To Be Offered Series 3 Replacements Instead Of Repair

A report claims Apple Watch 2 owners have the opportunity to get an Apple Watch 3 for free -- if their current device needs repair, but can’t be repaired due to a specific reason.

According to internal documentation seen by MacRumors, Apple is instructing Apple Stores and Authorized Service providers to replace 38mm aluminum Apple Watch Series 2 models needing repair with equivalent Apple Watch Series 3 models, simply because there appears to be a “shortage” of unspecified parts needed for repairs.

Before Apple Watch Series 2 owners can rejoice at the thought of trading their broken devices to a new one, however, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration before having their devices replaced.

Apple Watch Series 3 models can only work with iPhone models that are compatible with WatchOS 4 or newer. iPhone 5 and 5c owners availing the replacement offer will need to upgrade to a newer iPhone model as those devices are incompatible with WatchOS 4.

What’s more, it’s worth repeating that only the 38mm aluminum Apple Watch Series 2 model is covered by the temporary replacement offer. The Apple Watch Series 2 Stainless Steel, Edition, Hermes, and Nike+ models are not covered by the offer, and won’t be replaced with the Apple Watch Series 3.

Those who need to have their Series 2 Models repaired are advised to go into the Apple Support page and schedule an appointment with an Apple Store or Authorized Service provider. Those who are eligible for the offer but cannot accept the replacement Series 3 model can contact Apple Support to ask for a refund instead.

Apple didn’t specify when the replacement offer program will end. The company, in the document shared internally, said it will run “until further notice.”

Those who own 38mm aluminum Apple Watch Series 2 models in need of repair might find it worth going to the nearest Apple Store to avail of the offer, iPhone Hacks said. iPhone 5 and 5c owners who avail of the replacement offer will only need to spend money for a new iPhone, instead of paying for two new devices altogether.