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Google has taken a different stance from Apple when it comes to the repairability of its devices, particularly the Pixel Watch. Unlike Apple, Google currently has no official repair procedure in place for the Pixel Watch, which means that when these smartwatches break down, they often end up as electronic waste, as reported by The Verge.
Google Pixel Watch - Android Smartwatch with Fitbit Activity Tracking - Heart Rate Tracking - Champagne Gold case with Hazel Active band - LTE
Google’s spokesperson, Bridget Starkey, recently confirmed this situation to The Verge, stating, “At this moment, we don’t have any repair option for the Google Pixel Watch. If your watch is damaged, you can contact the Google Pixel Watch Customer Support Team to check your replacement options.” According to Google Support chats, the company also mentioned that it “doesn’t have any repair centers or service centers” for the Pixel Watch.
Google Pixel Watch - Android Smartwatch with Fitbit Activity Tracking - Heart Rate Tracking - Matte Black Stainless Steel case with Obsidian Active band - LTE
This lack of repair options for the Pixel Watch stands in stark contrast to Google’s approach with its Pixel phones. When it comes to their phones, Google partners with iFixit to ensure that spare parts and repair guides are readily available to consumers interested in fixing their devices. In fact, there’s even an independent iFixit guide detailing how to replace the Pixel Watch screen, proving that it’s technically possible. However, users who wish to undertake such a repair face a significant challenge in finding a replacement part. This challenge is compounded by the fact that the Pixel Watch has limited sales compared to mainstream competitors like the Apple Watch, making it difficult to source damaged devices with the required intact parts for repair.
Google Pixel Watch - Android Smartwatch with Fitbit Activity Tracking - Heart Rate Tracking Watch - Matte Black Stainless Steel case with Obsidian Active band - WiFi
In contrast, Apple takes a more user-friendly approach, offering repair solutions for the Apple Watch. The costs vary depending on whether the device is covered by AppleCare+. For Apple Watch owners without AppleCare+, the company provides a flat fee for repairs, which is $299 for an Apple Watch Series 8 and $499 for an Apple Watch Ultra. AppleCare+ subscribers enjoy significantly reduced rates, paying only $69 for an Apple Watch Series 8 or $79 for an Apple Watch Ultra, excluding the cost of the AppleCare+ subscription itself.
The vulnerability of the Pixel Watch’s screen, with its large glass hemisphere prone to cracking upon impact, presents a particular challenge. Google’s hardware warranty explicitly excludes coverage for damage resulting from accidents such as drops or impacts. This leaves Pixel Watch users with limited options, primarily involving replacing the entire device with a new one. Interestingly, the Pixel Watch 2 is rumored to feature almost the exact same design, raising concerns about the potential for future repairs.
