I have had several replaced under warrantee since they started making the safemag breakway, on several Mac laptops, pretty much no questions asked. Last week however i was in an Apple store for another problem, and thot to replace the lastest frayed cord. The Apple tech at the store said, "user damage" and not warrantee covered.
I was appalled. In the first place, this is an obvious design problem that everyone who reads the internet and cares, knows about. 2nd this was a first. 3rd and more troubling, exactly what would i be accused of doing? Chewing on my cord??? My dog? But i dont have a dog.
My guess is that Apple engineers have not been able to solve the design problem, and it is costing $$. I hope it is not a new policy. I think the tech was an exception.
I dont see why an obvious interim solution is not taken, make the low voltage part of the cord easily replaceble like the 120v side. This would cut the warrantee cost to a fraction.
I have always respected and appreciated Apple's solid warrantees and respect for its customers. I am confident the company will continue this approach, and i will be willing to pay a premium.