Do you buy your phones new or second-hand? Each has its pros and cons, but it mostly comes down to price versus hardware quality. However, if you can find someone who can do good refurbishments, you can buy a product that’s like new while saving a lot of money. Now, Google has made it a lot easier to find expertly refurbished Android phones by selling Pixel devices that have been given a second life per its standards.
Google’s Refurbished Pixel Phones Are Second-Hand Devices With an Official Touch
As spotted by The Verge, there’s now a refurbished phone category on the Google Store. Google states that it repairs its phones using original parts and installs the latest version of Android before it’s shipped out.
Each device undergoes scrutinous testing to ensure they’re suitable to resell, and they come with a year warranty to cover any flaws that may arise. The Verge did report that Google didn’t go into detail on whether it replaces the battery, which is a little worrying. However, when drawing up a list of things to consider when purchasing a refurbished device, buying a device from Google checks off many of those items alone.
You’re not going to find the latest and greatest models for sale—at least, not yet. However, what you will find are huge savings on phones that Google itself has brought back to like-new status. For instance, if you want a refurbished Pixel 7 Pro, you can buy one for $629, which is a $270 saving over buying one new.
Unfortunately, you can only purchase refurbished phones in the US right now, and Google hasn’t stated when or if it will sell them in other countries. Given how repairing phones is a great way to keep them from going to landfill, here’s hoping it finds a way to roll out this scheme worldwide.