What you need to know
- Google has announced that it is now able to launch and sell some past-generation Pixels in its stores through its Certified Refurbished Phones program.
- Consumers can pick up a Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 6, 6 Pro, or 6a from the Google Store today (October 28) with fresh, authentic parts and the latest Android OS.
- Google has said it will work to bring more Pixel generations into the program, but it will likely be a long time before the Pixel 9 arrives.
Google is launching a refurbished phone program for consumers offering “affordable” Pixels.
In a keyword post, Google announced the launch of a certified refurbished cell phone program for U.S. consumers. According to the company, with the launch of the program, consumers will be able to browse a selection of refurbished Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 6, 6 Pro, and 6a devices on the Google Store. However, it seems like this is just the beginning, as Google says we’ll see later if other Pixel generations are added.
These sleek past-generation phones come with free shipping and free returns. The aforementioned device is available on the Google Play Store starting today (October 28). In that listing, the Pixel 7 Pro sells for $629 (a $270 markdown) and the Pixel 6 Pro sells for $339 (a $260 markdown).
Additionally, Google has not revealed the date (or which phones are expected), so any such availability may be announced in the future.
Google then detailed the conditions under which a phone would qualify for the “refurbished” tag. According to the post, the company will inspect the Pixel’s battery, “casing” and screen. If there are any parts that require additional attention, send your phone to a technician and have the damaged parts replaced with “real” parts. Additionally, Google ensures that each refurbished Pixel comes with “the latest Android software.”
Consumers who purchase a refurbished Pixel also receive a one-year limited warranty and customer support.
Out of concern for a cleaner planet, Google says all refurbished phones available to consumers will be packaged in 100% plastic-free boxes.
It’s good to see Google focus more on pre-programmed refurbished phones, especially considering Samsung (and Apple) took the lead in this space a few years ago. Additionally, Google is following in the footsteps of Samsung by offering a one-year limited warranty on these refreshed phones. Samsung also continues to add to its “Certified Re-Newed” program for smartphones, like the addition of the Galaxy S23 Ultra earlier this year.
It will probably be a while before users see Pixel 9 series devices with a “refurbished” tag in the Google Store. In any case, those who purchase the latest series will receive even more extensive at-home repair support. Google provides a Pixel 9 repair manual on its support website that users can download. Although the provided manuals are not short (often hundreds of pages), they are reported to be easy to understand.
The appearance of such manuals appears to be a result of Google executives who have previously stated that they want to make it possible for anyone to repair their own devices.
