# Google Unveils One-Time Payment Choice for Preferred Care Protection
Google has rolled out a fresh option for customers to acquire its **Preferred Care** protection plans for Pixel devices. Previously only available as a **monthly subscription**, individuals can now choose a **one-time payment** that provides coverage for their device for a duration of two years. This modification simplifies the process for customers to protect their devices without the obligation of ongoing monthly fees.
## **What Exactly Is Preferred Care?**
Preferred Care serves as Google’s **device protection plan**, akin to **AppleCare+** or **Samsung Care**. It offers protection against accidental damage, repairs, and replacements at a lower rate. For instance, if your device gets a cracked screen, you’ll only be required to pay **$29 for a repair and up to $129 for a replacement**.
## **What Are the Changes?**
Effective **February 24, 2025**, Google will transition its insurance provider for Preferred Care from **Assurant** to **Asurion Warranty Protection Services, LLC**. Alongside this transition, Google is launching a **one-time payment option** for Preferred Care, enabling customers to pay upfront for **two years of coverage** rather than subscribing on a monthly basis.
### **Important Changes:**
– **One-time payment option** now available for Pixel phones, tablets, and watches.
– **New insurance provider** (Asurion) for devices dispatched on or after February 24, 2025.
– Customers can still select the **monthly subscription option** for up to 60 months of coverage.
## **What’s the Cost?**
The pricing for the **two-year Preferred Care plans** differs by device:
### **Pixel Phones:**
– **Pixel 9** – $159
– **Pixel 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL** – $249
– **Pixel 9 Pro Fold** – $279
– **Pixel Fold** – $279
– **Pixel 8 Pro** – $249
– **Pixel 8** – $159
– **Pixel 8a** – $109
– **Pixel 7a** – $99
– **Pixel 7 Pro** – $199
– **Pixel 7** – $149
### **Other Devices:**
– **Pixel Tablet** – $99
– **Pixel Watch 3** – $89
– **Pixel Watch 2** – $89
## **Is the One-Time Payment Beneficial?**
The **one-time payment option** provides a **minor discount** in comparison to paying for two years through a monthly subscription. Nonetheless, the **drawback** is that you **cannot extend coverage beyond 24 months** if you select this choice. For those preferring longer protection, the monthly plan might be a more suitable option.
## **How to Acquire Preferred Care**
Customers can add a Preferred Care plan:
– **During checkout** when buying a Pixel device from the **Google Store**.
– **Within 30 days** of acquiring a new Pixel device.
## **Final Remarks**
Google’s **new one-time payment option** for Preferred Care simplifies the process for customers to safeguard their devices without the concern of monthly payments. While it offers a discount compared to the subscription model, users desiring **extended coverage** might still opt for the monthly plan.
Would you choose the **one-time payment** or stick with the **monthly subscription**? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚀
