Google Launches Pixel Care+ Device Protection

In the US, Google is introducing a new program called Pixel Care+ to replace its Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection offerings. 

Google announced on Wednesday that it is launching Pixel Care+, a new device protection package. In the upcoming months, current monthly members will be switched to Pixel Care+, which will take the place of Google Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection in the United States.

In a blog post, Google claimed that Pixel Care+ offers Google device owners a “higher level of coverage, service, and peace of mind” and this aims to simplify and automate phone repairs.

Unrestricted claims for mechanical damage, extended warranty claims, and accidental damage are included in the new program. Moreover, it includes free screen and battery replacements, free post-warranty malfunction claims, original Google parts and replacements, priority assistance from Pixel specialists, self-service claims via the Google Store website, and optional additional loss and theft coverage.

For a variety of Pixel phones, Fitbits, tablets, and watches, Pixel Care+ will initially provide monthly and two-year options. Benefits include free screen and battery repairs, free post-warranty malfunction repairs, priority support from Pixel specialists, self-service claims through the Google Store, next-day shipping, and unlimited claims for mechanical damage, accidental damage, and extended warranty claims.

Users of Pixel Care+ also receive free more advanced shipping, including next-day shipping, on replacements.

Pricing for various devices is broken down on Google’s website. For instance, Pixel Care+ for a Pixel 10 costs $199 for two years or $10 a month.

Beginning Wednesday, new qualifying devices—such as the Pixel 8 and above, Pixel Watch 2 and up, Pixel Tablet, Fitbit Ace LTE, Fitbit Versa 4, Fitbit Sense 2, Fitbit Charge 6, and Fitbit Inspire 3—will be able to access Pixel Care+ in the United States.  

After purchasing, the software can be added within 60 days. Customers can choose a time and place for the repair and initiate a claim straight from the Google Store. They can also use the My Pixel App to submit a claim immediately.

Additionally, there is a Pixel Care+ with Loss and Theft add-on that protects your smartphone in the event that it is stolen or lost. Two claims may be made in a 12-month period. With the exception of New York, it is accessible everywhere in the US.

There is not much of a difference between the two plans. The Pixel Care+ plan costs $9 per month for the newly released Pixel 10, and the Pixel Care+ with Loss and Theft plan is $10 per month. Below is a complete list of devices that qualify and the associated expenses of coverage. (Note: The device is covered for two years by the upfront fee.)

Customers of Pixel devices have long complaint about Google’s bad after-sale support. Customers were forced to contemplate third-party repair or replacement because it didn’t even offer a program to fix a broken Pixel Watch screen. With Pixel Care+, hopefully, that comes to an end.

The program is currently available and may be installed on new devices through the My Pixel app or Google Store within 60 days after purchase. You can submit a claim using the same two platforms.

In the upcoming months, Google plans to switch current Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection members to Pixel Care+.