It’s called Pixel Care+ and it takes the places of Google Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection with new coverage options in the U.S. The updated plan is meant to offer “an improved experience at a higher level of coverage, service and peace of mind” for Pixel and other Google hardware customers, the company says.
What Pixel Care+ Includes
The program provides more benefits than previous initiatives, including:
- Unlimited accidental damage claims
- $0 screen and battery repairs
- $0 post-warranty malfunction claims
- Protection for mechanical breakdowns and extended warranties
- Google original parts and certified replaced parts
- Priority support from Pixel experts
- Self-service claims via the Google Store
- Optional loss and theft protection
- Free priority shipping including next-day replacements
Pricing and Eligible Devices
Google’s website gives pricing that depends on the model of the device. For instance, Pixel Care+ coverage for the upcoming Pixel 10 will be priced at $10 per month or $199 for two years.
The program debuted today in the U.S. for the following new devices:
- Pixel 8 and newer smartphones
- Pixel Watch 2, and beyond
- Pixel Tablet
- Fitbit Ace LTE, Fitbit Versa 4, Fitbit Sense 2, Fitbit Charge 6 and Fitbit Inspire 3
Current Preferred Care or Fi Device Protection subscribers will eventually be moved over to Pixel Care+ in the next few months.
Enrollment and Claims
Customers have up to 60 days after booking to add Pixel Care+. Customers who have affected devices can file claims directly through the Google Store or on the My Pixel App, after which they can schedule repairs at their convenience.
Why It Matters
Google has introduced Pixel Care+ to shore up its ecosystem of device support in response to an increasing group of consumers worried about repairing smartphones. With its $0 repairs and unlimited claims, the company is hoping to go head to head with AppleCare+ and Samsung Care+.
