The most expensive Care Plus plan from Samsung now offers glass replacements at no cost.
Broken screen repairs on demand.
Samsung has introduced enhancements to the benefits of its extended warranty plans, now offering unlimited same-day glass repairs at no additional cost. Previously, repairing a broken screen cost subscribers $29, but those using the Care Plus Theft and Loss plan will not have to pay anything extra for this service, making it advantageous for those prone to breaking screens.
The company's new policy covers not only cracked glass on the phone's outer display but also the back panel and internal screens of foldable phones, as indicated by a Samsung spokesperson. This is significant since repairing a cracked internal screen can be quite expensive, often costing hundreds of dollars without an extended warranty. For frequent device users, repairing a single internal screen could justify the cost of the Care Plus plan, although the value proposition is less clear for traditionally designed phones.
Samsung categorizes its phones into different tiers and sets repair prices based on these categories. Users can also choose to pay monthly over a three-year period or make a one-time payment, although coverage is limited to two years. For example, the monthly cost for a Level 4 device, which includes models like the Galaxy S24 Ultra or any of the brand's foldable phones, is $18. The monthly cost for the Galaxy S24 Plus is $15, while the regular S24 model costs $10 per month. These prices may not be affordable for everyone, and it would require breaking the screen multiple times to justify the difference between the Care Plus and Care Plus Theft and Loss plans.
A two-year Care Plus plan for the Galaxy S24 Ultra costs $259 if paid upfront, which is $90 less than the Theft and Loss plan. To balance the investment between both plans, at least three screen repairs would be needed. However, the Theft and Loss plan offers additional benefits, including the ability to replace the device for a fixed fee if it's lost. So, if you're concerned about the internal screen of your foldable device, the more expensive plan might provide you with greater peace of mind. Overall, these types of benefit enhancements are a relief in times of inflation.