Google has launched a new device protection program, called Pixel Care+, for its lineup of Pixel-branded smartphones, smartwatches, and Fitbit wearables. The program is an upgrade and replacement of the Google Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection programs currently offered to users.
The new device protection program has arrived just days after Google refreshed its devices. Last week, the company unveiled the Pixel 10 series, Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 4, and Pixel Buds 2a at its hardware event in New York City.
Google explained that Pixel Care+ comes with a higher level of coverage for a variety of hardware repairs and $0 deductibles on common repairs for components like the battery and display.
According to its blog post, here are the benefits you can avail:
- Unlimited claims for accidental damage, extended warranty claims and mechanical damage
- $0 screen and battery repairs
- $0 post-warranty malfunction claims
- Genuine Google parts and replacements
- Priority Support from Pixel Experts
- Self-service claims through the Google Store website
- Optional added loss and theft coverage
For comparison, its predecessor, Google Preferred Care, limits accidental damages to two claims per rolling 12-month period and requires a $29 service fee for cracked screen repairs.
Google has partnered with Asurion to power its Pixel Care+ protection program, offering users free shipping options on replacements, including next-day shipping. The search giant said it has improved the claims process, making it easier for users to get their phones repaired or replaced.
Pixel Care+ is currently available in the US for the following devices:
- Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel Pro Fold, Pixel 9a
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
- Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Watch 4
- Pixel Tablet (with or without Charging Speaker Dock)
- Fitbit Ace LTE, Fitbit Sense 2, Fitbit Versa 4, Fitbit Charge 6, Fitbit Inspire 3
Users can buy a Pixel Care+ plan within 60 days of purchase from the Google Store, Google Fi, the new My Pixel app, and the Google Retail Store. It doesn"t matter where the device was purchased. They can file claims directly from the Google Store website or the My Pixel app.
Pixel Care+ plans are available on a monthly basis up to 60 months or a 2-year fixed term. For the Pixel 10, a monthly plan starts at $9/mo and $179 for two years. Similarly, it starts at $5/mo for the Pixel Watch 4 and $16/mo for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Users can pay some extra cash to buy the Lost and Theft addon for their plans, which requires them to pay a deductible depending on the model. It"s worth noting that the $0 service fee on battery replacement is applicable when the battery capacity is less than 80%.
The company said that it will start migrating existing monthly subscribers of Google Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection in the US to the new Pixel Care+ protection program in the coming months.