Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET
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**ZDNET’s takeaways**
Google has officially unveiled a new initiative it calls *Pixel Care+*, a comprehensive device protection program crafted specifically with its premium, flagship hardware in mind. Through this plan, customers who invest in Google’s more recent Pixel phones, Pixel tablets, or Pixel-branded wearables, as well as qualifying Fitbit devices, will gain access to a level of coverage that extends beyond the limitations traditionally seen in standard device warranties. Among the most attractive incentives are complimentary screen and battery replacements—two of the most common concerns for long-term mobile device owners.
By launching this expanded offering, Google aims to deliver reassurance to users who often worry about the financial and logistical burden of unexpected hardware failures or accidental damage. In other words, anyone with a Pixel 8 or newer smartphone, a Pixel Tablet, or the latest generation of Pixel Watches—including Pixel Watch 2 and beyond—will be able to secure membership in this plan. Fitbit enthusiasts are not excluded either; eligible gadgets include the Fitbit Ace LTE, Fitbit Sense 2, Fitbit Versa 4, Fitbit Charge 6, and Fitbit Inspire 3. This inclusion demonstrates Google’s attempt to unify its hardware ecosystem under a single, upgraded protection umbrella.
In its announcement earlier this week, the company emphasized that Pixel Care+ is not merely replacing older programs such as Google Preferred Care, but is designed to elevate the entire customer experience by offering what Google calls “a higher level of coverage, service, and peace of mind.” Effectively, the program caters to the growing demand for device protection that balances comprehensive features with accessible pricing. The cost is somewhat higher than Google’s earlier insurance options, but this places it on competitive footing with Apple’s industry-standard AppleCare+ plan. In fact, in selected circumstances—particularly when examining deductible fees—Pixel Care+ manages to surpass Apple’s offering by providing greater value for the end user. Unlike Apple’s approach, which no longer allows customers to save money with multi‑year subscription bundles, Google continues to provide flexible multi-year options that can reduce long-term costs.
**What does Pixel Care+ include?**
The details of the benefits reveal why this initiative has the potential to shift how customers view device insurance. Protection provides unlimited claims for accidental damage—whether it’s a cracked display, an unresponsive button, or a dropped tablet that refuses to power on. Mechanical failures and extended warranty claims are also covered. Notably, membership includes free screen replacements as well as free battery repairs, eliminating two of the most expensive and inconvenient issues for mobile device owners. Additionally, if a malfunction occurs even after the standard warranty expires, Google commits to resolving that issue at no cost. Importantly, all repairs involve genuine Google components, so customers can be assured they are receiving quality parts rather than third‑party substitutes. To further enhance the support experience, customers gain priority access to expert assistance from Google’s Pixel specialists and can initiate repair or replacement requests directly through the Google Store website. This streamlined, self‑service process even allows users to choose an appointment time that fits their schedule, minimizing disruption. For those seeking maximum security, an optional upgrade adds coverage for loss and theft—although this specific benefit is not available to customers located in New York.
**How much does Pixel Care+ cost?**
The pricing structure, while varying by product type, appears carefully calibrated to align closely with what rival tech companies demand for similar coverage. For example, a Pixel 10 Pro Fold can be safeguarded for $16 per month or at a discounted two‑year price of $299, representing a savings of $84 compared to paying monthly. The Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL models fall into the $13 per month or $239 for two years range, while the standard Pixel 10 is priced at an even more affordable $9 per month or $179 over two years. In comparison, insurance for wearables like the Pixel Watch 4 is $5 per month or $99 for two years, a relatively modest outlay for ongoing reassurance. Consumers wishing to add loss and theft coverage should anticipate paying slightly higher premiums, together with a deductible fee ranging between $60 and $100 for device replacement depending on the model.
**Availability and transition from previous plans**
Enrollment for Pixel Care+ is limited to newly purchased, eligible devices within the United States, and consumers must add the plan within sixty days of the original purchase. Registration can be completed through either the Google Store or the My Pixel application. For users who previously held subscriptions under Google’s Preferred Care or through Fi Device Protection, migration to Pixel Care+ will occur automatically. This transition ensures continuity of protection without requiring extra steps from existing subscribers.
Taken as a whole, Pixel Care+ represents Google’s attempt to combine flexibility, stronger consumer confidence, and premium-level service into a unified strategy that competes directly with offerings from Samsung and Apple. The question for many potential subscribers will not be whether coverage is useful—that is almost certain—but rather whether the long-term costs justify the peace of mind. By offering unlimited claims, free repairs for the most common issues, and genuine components backed by expert support, Google is presenting a case that its plan is not simply marketing hype but, potentially, an intelligently structured protection program that could redefine customer expectations across the industry.
Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/googles-new-pixel-phone-insurance-includes-unlimited-claims-but-is-it-legit-i-did-the-math/
