Google adds one-time Preferred Care payment option for Pixel devices

What you need to know

• Google is beginning to offer one-time payment options for Preferred Care plans.
• These plans were previously only available for Fitbit products, but can now be purchased for new orders of Pixel phones, tablets, and watches.
• The one-time fee nets buyers Preferred Care coverage for two years at a discount compared to the subscription cost.

Google is changing its insurance partner for Preferred Care plans as of today, Feb. 24, and is adding a new payment option as part of the move. The company updated its official support page with the new insurance provider, as well as the one-time payment option that covers a Pixel phone, tablet, or watch for two years (via Android Authority). Previously, all Pixel devices had to be protected with Preferred Care via a subscription.

Google’s Preferred Care plans are a means of insuring a Pixel or Fitbit device, just like AppleCare Plus or Samsung Care. Starting today, there are two different ways of purchasing a Preferred Care plan. You can either insure the device for two years with a one-time payment, or choose a monthly subscription for up to 60 months of total coverage. In the event your screen is cracked, you’ll pay $29 for a repair or up to $129 for a replacement.