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PSA: Apple’s holiday return policy takes the risk out of gifts, allows extended test-drives

If you’re planning on buying an Apple product for someone as a gift – or want to have an extended test-drive yourself before deciding whether or not to keep something – you can safely do so knowing that Apple’s extended Holiday Return Policy is now in effect.

Instead of the usual 14-day window to return unwanted items, you can now return them for a full refund anytime up to 8th January.

Items purchased at the Apple Online Store that are received between November 10, 2016 and December 25, 2016, may be returned through January 8, 2017. Please note that all other terms and conditions provided in the Apple Online Store Sales and Refunds Policy are still applicable with respect to such items purchased. All purchases made after December 25, 2016 are subject to the Standard Return Policy.

There are a few exceptions …

Apple lists eight categories of items that are not eligible for return:

  • Opened memory
  • Opened software (can be returned if you reject the licensing terms)
  • Electronic Software Downloads
  • Print Products
  • Software Up-to-Date Program Products (software upgrades)
  • Apple Gift Cards
  • Apple Gift Packaging (origami style gift box with ribbon and greeting card)
  • Apple Developer products (membership, technical support incidents, WWDC tickets)

The policy applies only to goods purchased directly from Apple (through either online or retail stores), and you of course need to return the complete kit, including all packaging.

You can return products at any Apple Store, or arrange collection via your Order Status page.

Photo: Regent Street store, London (CNET)

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Avatar for Ben Lovejoy Ben Lovejoy

Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!


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