For years, extended smartphone warranties have carried a bad reputation. Customers often felt they were paying extra for hypothetical scenarios—only to be hit with high deductibles when something did go wrong. In many cases, the out-of-pocket repair cost under warranty wasn’t much different from what a third-party shop would charge.
Google is turning that model on its head. With the revamped Pixel Care Plus program, the company is introducing a level of consumer-friendly coverage that is virtually unheard of in the industry: free screen repairs and free battery replacements with no service fee.
This overhaul, first announced alongside the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro and later extended to newer models, is more than a tweak—it’s a fundamental shift in how extended protection plans are positioned.
What’s New in Pixel Care Plus?
At the heart of the new Pixel Care Plus plan is a simple but powerful promise:
No deductibles. No surprise charges. Just coverage that aligns directly with the two most common issues smartphone users face.
And unlike limited-time promotions or first-year bonuses, this is baked into the plan for the full coverage period.
The Two Pillars of Free Coverage
Unlimited Screen Repairs
Accidental damage to the display—whether it’s a drop, a crack, or a spiderweb of scratches—is now covered at no cost. Previously, even under warranty, users had to pay a $30 deductible per repair. Now, the repair itself is completely free (excluding applicable taxes).
Given that a typical out-of-warranty Pixel screen replacement costs $180–$250, just one free repair already makes the plan worthwhile.
2. Free Battery Replacements (Even for Normal Wear)
This is the game-changer. Smartphone batteries naturally degrade over time, often dropping below 80% health after 2–3 years of heavy use. Most manufacturer warranties only replace batteries if they’re defective—not if they’re simply worn down.
Google flips the script by covering normal battery wear. If your Pixel no longer holds charge like it used to, you can get a free battery replacement—a service that usually costs $80–$120.
Beyond Screens and Batteries: What Else Is Covered?
Pixel Care Plus still provides full-device protection beyond its two headline perks:
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Other Accidental Damage
Physical or liquid damage—such as a broken camera lens, damaged charging port, or water exposure—can be repaired or replaced with a $99 service fee.
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Theft and Loss Protection (Optional Add-on)
For an additional monthly fee, you can extend coverage to theft and loss, with a $149 deductible per claim.
Together, these make Pixel Care Plus one of the most comprehensive phone protection plans available.
Is Pixel Care Plus Worth It?
With older warranty models, the math was fuzzy. Deductibles, exclusions, and high premiums often made coverage feel like a gamble. Now, the equation is much simpler:
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The Screen Argument
$99/year for Pixel Care Plus vs. $200+ for a single out-of-pocket screen repair. One accident pays for the plan.
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The Battery Argument
$99/year vs. $100+ for a professional battery replacement. Heavy users or those keeping their phones for 2–3 years almost guarantee a replacement.
In effect, Pixel Care Plus operates like a pre-paid maintenance plan for the two repairs almost every phone owner will need at some point.
How to Claim Your Free Repair
Google has streamlined the process to minimize friction:
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Start a Request
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Choose the Issue
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Pick a Repair Method
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Mail-In Repair: Ship your device to Google’s repair facility.
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uBreakiFix by Asurion: Drop off at a local partner store, often with same-day turnaround.
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Pay $0 at Checkout
Note: Pixel Care Plus must be purchased within 30 days of buying your new Pixel. It currently covers the Pixel 5a and newer models in supported regions.
A Shift in the Smartphone Warranty Industry?
Google’s bold move directly addresses the top two consumer complaints with smartphones: fragile screens and short battery life. By removing deductibles, it lowers the psychological barrier to opting into extended coverage.
More importantly, it positions Pixel Care Plus as one of the most consumer-friendly protection plans in the smartphone market today—potentially putting pressure on AppleCare+ and Samsung Care+ to follow suit.
Whether other manufacturers adopt similar policies remains to be seen, but for now, Pixel owners have a unique safety net that enhances both peace of mind and long-term device value.
Bottom line: If you tend to hold onto your phone for multiple years, or if you’re accident-prone, Pixel Care Plus is no longer a gamble—it’s a smart investment.
Pixel Care Plus FAQs
1. How much does Pixel Care Plus cost?
The plan costs around $7.99/month or $99/year, depending on your Pixel model. Theft and loss protection adds an extra monthly fee.
2. Which Pixel models are eligible?
Pixel Care Plus is available for the Pixel 5a and newer models (including the Pixel Fold), as long as the plan is purchased within 30 days of device purchase.
3. Are screen repairs truly unlimited?
Yes. Google does not cap the number of free screen repairs you can claim during your coverage period.
4. How is battery health determined?
Google typically considers a battery eligible for replacement when its maximum capacity drops below 80%, which is standard across the industry.
5. Are there any hidden fees?
For screen and battery repairs: No service fee. You only pay applicable local taxes. Other types of damage (e.g., water damage, broken ports) still carry a $99 deductible, and theft/loss claims carry a $149 deductible.
6. Where can I get my Pixel repaired?
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Mail-in repair through Google’s official repair centers.
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uBreakiFix by Asurion (Google’s official repair partner) for local, often same-day service.
7. Can I buy Pixel Care Plus after 30 days?
No. The plan must be purchased within 30 days of buying your new device.
8. How does it compare to AppleCare+ or Samsung Care+?
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AppleCare+: Still charges a $29 fee for screen repairs and does not cover normal battery wear for free.
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Samsung Care+: Similar deductible-based model with fees for most repairs.
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Pixel Care Plus: Currently the most consumer-friendly, offering truly free screen and battery repairs.
9. Does the plan transfer if I sell my Pixel?
Yes. If you sell or gift your Pixel, the buyer can continue using Pixel Care Plus coverage, provided the subscription remains active.
10. Is Pixel Care Plus available worldwide?
Not yet. Availability depends on region. It’s currently offered in the U.S., Canada, and select other markets.
