Calling AppleCare's support team is a fairly simple and painless process for addressing tech issues related to Apple devices. Immediately upon calling, you're directed to stay on the line for English or press 9 for Spanish. The automated software asks for a consent notification to your Apple phone or device to help expedite support. If you're calling from an iPhone, like I was, you'll receive a pop-up message on your phone asking you to confirm your Apple ID for security purposes. For those calling from an Android device, you can still access support by providing identification information related to whichever Apple device needs assistance.
The automated system begins with the option to make a payment and/or address billing changes. If this is not what you need, you'll be able to choose a number associated with the specific Apple device you're calling about iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, Apple watches/TVs or other inquiries. If you'd like to speak directly with a customer service representative, known as an Apple support advisor, you'll need to say the words 'customer service' after the automation lists the options. I wanted to gather information about Apple Music, which is not a choice listed, so I opted for customer service. While waiting to be connected, Apple allows you to choose the type of music you listen to, ranging from pop modern to classical and jazz. This is a very nice addition to making your time on hold more pleasant.
Within less than five minutes, a support advisor was on the line and began asking how I could be helped. I shared with him that I was seeking information about accessing Apple Music, and he shared that his team could only address technical issues with the music app functioning on devices. However, he could direct me to the appropriate department to address non-technical issues such as signing up or registering for Apple Music. In addition, the support advisor took the time to guide me in finding all the necessary information on Apple's website, where he explained many challenges faced by Apple users can be addressed via their comprehensive collection of troubleshooting articles. Most people contact AppleCare for ID/password support, device repairs or billing questions.
I found Apple support advisors to be very knowledgeable, patient and quick to direct you to the exact information needed to solve a broad range of technical issues. While waiting, the time on the phone did not feel wasted or futile, as the pleasant music and timely access to advisors made the call worthwhile. Additionally, I appreciated not needing to have all my personal information in front of me before making the call since Apple can securely access those details using my Apple ID. The advisor assured me that Apple staff members will never ask for passwords, verification codes or specific account details.