Whether you’re a fan of Apple or not, you’ve got to give them some credit. The company started in a garage, but now they make just about every technology available! Recently, the released the newest in the company’s massive lineup of branded products: a credit card, called Apple Card. Yet, despite its simple design, the Apple Card isn’t actually as easy to use as it looks…
Its Unique Expensive Look
When Apple unveiled the card, fans’ jaws dropped. It’s a beautiful, 100% titanium card, with a white, minimalist design. Instead of having the card number, expiration date, and the rest of the usual info, it only features the owner’s name and Apple logo on the front. Then, on the back, nothing but a magnetic strip! Not only does it look great, but the design is also incredibly functional. By not placing the credit card information on the physical card, the Apple Card is one of the most secure cards out there. And, for those who like a weighty card, you’re in luck! The card weighs almost 15 grams, making it a bit heavier than Chase Sapphire Preferred.
While the Apple Card looks great, don’t get too excited. The company did warn users that the cards are regularly damaged. They don’t recommend placing it in a leather wallet or denim pockets, as it can get scratched. Unfortunately, jeans and leather wallets are very, very common. But that’s not even the end of it! They also recommend limiting contact with other cards, cash, change. Plus, if your titanium Apple Card comes into contact with hard surfaces or materials, it’s possible that the coating can be damaged,” the company stated. Yikes.
Signing Up
So, while the card might get damaged easily, there’s some good news. The card is completely free and can easily be replaced without any additional fees. Unfortunately, but perhaps obviously, only Apple users can sign up for the card. After downloading the Apple Card application from the website, it will automatically sync with the applicant’s Apple ID. Then, they fill out a relatively standard credit card application. Afterward, the physical card comes in the mail in a few weeks!
There are some standard qualifications: first, only U.S. citizens over the age of 18 can apply. Second, as stated, one must have an Apple account; however, you’ll also need an iCloud account. Finally, your device must be running iOS 12.4 or later.
Using The Card
The Apple Card can do it all: you can add it to the company’s digital Wallet, as well as any other digital wallets. Meanwhile, for stores or online shops that do not take Apple pay, no worries. Users can always use the physical version with any merchant that accepts Mastercard.
However, credit card pooling and sharing are not allowed. Just like any other, the Apple Card has credit limits, depending on your history and income. Thankfully, though, there are no annual or international fees for late payment or exceeding the limit. There are annual interest rates for not paying off a balance, of course. That’s offset by the cashback, though! Users get 1% cash back for any purchase, 2% cash back for using Apple Pay and 3% from buying in Apple Store and using Uber.
Apple named their card “the most significant change in the credit card experience in 50 years.” We hope that proves the case! Of course, if you have any trouble using your card, contact customer service.