I recognize that ESD mat…
In the past, as many have said, you’d have to physically damage the device enough to warrant service under that fee. In a way, it was Apple trying to keep you from spending money they deemed “unnecessary” and not needed for the actual function of the device to continue.
AppleCare+ recently changed it‘s allowances on cosmetic damage. If the customer wishes to pay ($299 damage fee) for it, they can get their device fixed even for slight cosmetic damage. It’s similar to how you can always pay to replace a battery on an apple device, but you won’t get it covered for free until it’s failing in diagnostics. I would say OP’s computer qualifies for this.
Of course, that will never be a 100% covered scenario. Some damage, such as single hairline cracks, are covered. But the slightest point of impact there, AND BOOM! You’re out of luck.
Anyways, sounds like OP is going to get a case and live with it. Good option for now!
Reminds me of how when I got my current car and was doing some work at a friends shop, I backed my then 2-weeks old to me cosmetically perfect vehicle into a blind corner. Still have the small dent there, it’s a $700 fix, and I’ll get to it eventually. But for now, it’s a functioning car. Why not use and enjoy it and freak out later on it
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