Google brings back 2-year protection plans for Pixel devices

Good news for Pixel fans! Google is now offering 2-year protection plans for its Pixel phones and other devices, moving away from just monthly options. This change makes it easier to keep your device covered for longer with a single payment.

Preferred Care is Google’s answer to something like Apple’s protection plan. It gives you extra time to fix issues like defects or breakdowns and lowers the cost of repairs for things like cracked screens or worn-out batteries. Before, you could only pay for it monthly—anywhere from $5 to $15 depending on your device. Now, as of February 24, 2025, Google is letting everyone pick a 2-year plan for any Pixel phone, tablet, or watch bought from their store or other shops.

These one-time payment plans aren’t new. When the Pixel 9 series came out, Google offered them for a bit, but then they disappeared for most devices. A quick look back shows only monthly options were around in January. Today, though, you can grab a 2-year plan right at checkout. Google even tested this idea in places like the UK and Japan last summer.

Here’s what it costs for some popular devices:

• Pixel 9: $159 (or $8/month) – Screen fix: $29, Other damage: $79
• Pixel 9 Pro Fold: $279 (or $15/month) – Screen fix: $29, Other damage: $129
• Pixel 8a: $109 (or $6/month) – Screen fix: $29, Other damage: $49
• Pixel Watch 3: $89 (or $4/month) – Screen fix: $29, Other damage: $49

Google’s also switching who handles these plans. They used to work with Assurant, but now Asurion is taking over for anything shipped after February 24, 2025. If you got your device before that, it sticks with the old provider and might not have the 2-year option. This update gives Pixel users a simpler way to protect their gear. Whether you’ve got a phone, watch, or tablet, you can now lock in coverage for two years upfront—perfect if you like peace of mind without monthly hassles!