If you have the unfortunate experience of cracking the screen on your Pixel Watch, you’ll be disappointed to learn that getting it officially repaired by Google is not an option. This issue has sparked frustration among several Pixel Watch owners who have expressed their concerns on platforms like Reddit and Google support forums. Even The Verge reported on an official Google support chat where a reader was told that there are no repair or service centers available for the Pixel Watch.
According to Google spokesperson Bridget Starkey, there are currently no repair options for the Google Pixel Watch, and if your watch is damaged, you are advised to contact the Google Pixel Watch Customer Support Team to explore your replacement options. This lack of repairability is in line with Google’s Limited Warranty, which specifically states that damage caused by accidents, misuse, neglect, disassembly, alterations, or servicing by unauthorized technicians is not covered. External factors such as liquid damage, exposure to sharp objects, excessive force, electrical anomalies, and extreme environmental conditions are also excluded from the warranty.
This leaves Pixel Watch owners on their own when it comes to dealing with damage caused by drops or accidental strikes. In contrast to other wearable devices like the Apple Watch, Google does not offer an extended warranty or a repair service for the Pixel Watch. However, iFixit’s Pixel Watch teardown reveals that while the screen is not easily accessible, the watch itself shows potential for future repairability. iFixit even provides a detailed guide for replacing a cracked, broken, or dead screen. However, finding a replacement part might be a challenge for average consumers, especially since Google does not offer repair options for the device. Suggestions from commenters on the iFixit guide include buying a still-intact Pixel Watch from eBay, but this may not be significantly cheaper and could potentially be more wasteful than purchasing a new or used Pixel Watch replacement.
The lack of repair options is concerning, especially considering that the Pixel Watch features a circular domed glass display that is susceptible to cracking. During the review period, a colleague at The Verge cracked their Pixel Watch within a few days, despite not engaging in any particularly risky behaviors or exposing the device to hard surfaces. These discrepancies in experiences highlight that luck may play a significant role in whether or not a Pixel Watch sustains damage from accidental drops.
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Google is not the only company guilty of making smartwatch repairs difficult. Repairing an Apple Watch has historically been an expensive and challenging task as well. Without AppleCare Plus, the cost estimate for repairing a Series 8 Apple Watch is $299, while repairing an Apple Watch Ultra can set you back $499. However, Apple does offer a repair service for their watches, even if purchasing a new one might be more cost-effective in the long run.
The lack of repair options for the Pixel Watch is even more concerning when considering that Google is expected to launch a new Pixel Watch 2 in October, featuring a design that is nearly identical to its predecessor. However, Google may soon be compelled to change its repair policy. California recently passed a right-to-repair bill that requires companies to make replacement parts for electronics available for three years if they cost $50 or more, and for seven years for devices costing $100 or more. This legislation could potentially force Google to provide repair options for the Pixel Watch and other devices in the future.
In conclusion, the inability to officially repair a cracked Pixel Watch screen is a significant disadvantage for owners of the device. Despite the potential for repairability, sourcing replacement parts and finding credible repair options is currently challenging. However, recent legislation in California may push companies like Google to reconsider their repair policies and provide more accessible options for consumers.
