Calling AppleCare was a pretty streamless process. I had to wait almost ten minutes on the hold line, but I had no issues with the directory system or with the customer service agent once I got there. One thing I appreciated is that the automated part of the phone call is incredibly streamlined. I didn't have to listen through endless options and menus. Apple has a lot of products, so I could easily envision a lot of long lists telling me to press 1 for this and press 2 for this, but that proved not to be necessary.
This is because Apple has automated its intake process with an AI voice assistant. It asks you a few questions to get you to the right department and then once you get over there quickly narrows down your problem. Then you end up in line to speak to the applicable care lesson. It only took me a little over two minutes to get to the queue line which also was impressive given how many different reasons people could have for calling Apple.
In fact, a lot of people likely call Apple, which makes their customer service even better. I could easily spend half an hour on the line with Apple and wouldn't be surprised. People could call about their iPhones, watches, tablets, mp3 players and other products. They could also call about synching and billing issues, not to mention the app store, ebooks and media files. Despite this, they offer pretty decent customer service.
When I first called, the voice agent said, "I’m an automated system that can help you. In a few sentences, tell me what I can do for you today." I responded, “Help synching my Apple watch.” It then told me, "Okay, I will get you right over to our technology and support department." Then it asked me to confirm my identity by sending a message to my devices, which I did.
It then asked me, "If you are calling about an Apple order, say yes. Otherwise, tell me what you are calling about." I answered "Apple Watch" and it asked if I was calling about my gold watch, which I responded I was. It then told me to wait for an Apple support advisor and let me choose the type of music that I wanted to listen to. I was on hold for about six minutes, but did get to an agent who was able to help me troubleshoot my synching problem.
Based on this call, I'm comfortable recommending AppleCare's customer service line. The efficiency of its intake system and competency of its agency made for a positive overall experience.