MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. - Aug 27, 2025 (UTC) - Google has unveiled Pixel Care+, a comprehensive new device protection program that significantly upgrades the company’s hardware protection offerings. The new service replaces Google’s existing Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection programs in the United States, promising enhanced coverage and improved customer experience for Pixel device owners.
Key Features and Benefits
Pixel Care+ provides unlimited claims for accidental damage, extended warranty claims, and mechanical damage, with $0 deductibles for screen and battery repairs. This marks a substantial improvement over the previous protection plans, which typically required deductibles for repairs.
The new program’s standout features include:
- Zero-cost repairs: Unlimited $0 screen repairs and battery replacements using Google certified parts
- Comprehensive coverage: Unlimited claims for accidental and mechanical damage, as well as extended warranty claims
- Priority support: Enhanced customer service with priority handling for Pixel Care+ subscribers
- Premium shipping: Free upgraded shipping on replacements, including next-day shipping options
- Genuine parts guarantee: All repairs use authentic Google components to maintain device integrity
Two-Tier Protection Options
Google is offering Pixel Care+ in two variants to meet different user needs:
- Standard Pixel Care+: Covers accidental damage, mechanical issues, and extended warranty claims
- Pixel Care+ with Loss and Theft: Includes all standard coverage plus protection if devices are lost or stolen
Enrollment and Availability
Customers can add coverage plans immediately upon device purchase or within 60 days of purchase. The program is currently available in the United States, with availability in other markets like Canada expected in the future.
Transition from Existing Programs
Pixel Care+ will replace Google Preferred Care and Fi Device Protection in the U.S., streamlining Google’s device protection offerings under a single, more comprehensive program. Current monthly subscribers of Google’s existing protection plans will be transitioned to the new service.
The previous Preferred Care program, while functional, had limitations including deductibles for common repairs and restricted claim numbers. Google’s new Pixel Care+ device protection program represents a significant upgrade over the lackluster Preferred Care plan.
Market Context and Competition
The launch comes as smartphone protection plans become increasingly important for consumers investing in premium devices. Google’s move to eliminate deductibles for the most common repair needs – screen damage and battery replacement – positions Pixel Care+ competitively against offerings from other manufacturers like Samsung Care+ and Apple Care+.
The timing coincides with the upcoming Pixel 10 launch this week, providing new device buyers with enhanced protection options from day one.
Industry Impact
Google’s decision to offer industry-leading coverage with $0 deductibles for the most common repairs could pressure other manufacturers to enhance their protection programs. Screen damage and battery degradation represent the most frequent issues smartphone users face, making zero-cost coverage for these repairs particularly valuable.
Enhanced Customer Experience
Beyond the financial benefits, Pixel Care+ emphasizes improved service quality. The program promises priority support channels, ensuring subscribers receive faster response times when issues arise. Combined with next-day shipping for replacement devices and the use of genuine Google parts for all repairs, the service aims to minimize disruption when devices need attention.
Strategic Significance
The launch of Pixel Care+ represents Google’s commitment to providing comprehensive ecosystem support for its hardware customers. By offering superior protection terms, particularly the elimination of deductibles for common repairs, Google is addressing one of the primary pain points in device ownership – unexpected repair costs.
Google stated that Pixel Care+ provides “a higher level of coverage, service, and peace of mind for Google hardware owners”, emphasizing the company’s focus on long-term customer satisfaction and device longevity.
The program’s unlimited claims structure also suggests confidence in Pixel device build quality while providing customers with comprehensive protection against the unpredictable nature of device damage and wear.
Pixel Care+ is available starting today through the Google Store and can be added to new device purchases or existing Pixel devices within 60 days of purchase. Pricing varies by device model and coverage tier, with both monthly and upfront payment options available.
