SquareTrade Warranty Blog

SquareTrade Introduces Warranty With Accidental Damage Protection for iPad

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Hi fans! With the unveiling of Apple's iPad, we've received several inquiries about what sort of iPad warranty we would provide. We certainly appreciate your interest and are excited to give you an update!

Protecting your iPad from accidental damage?

Like the SquareTrade iPhone coverage you know and love, SquareTrade will protect your tablet from accidents like drops and spills!

Details? Click here.

Coverage will be available in March, once iPads are available for purchase.

In the mean time, feel free to take this poll and see how fellow SquareTrade fans are reacting to Apple's announcement: Planning to buy an Apple iPad?

Further questions? We love hearing from you! Give us a call anytime at 877-WARRANTY or click here to send us an email.

Apple's iPad is Official! Verdict?

Update (January 29, 2010): Getting an iPad? SquareTrade is pleased to announce the first and only extended care plan available for Apple's iPad tablet with protection from drops and spills.

"Tabletless. Plz help!" Apple fan spotted at Yerba Buena with signs pleading, "Will Tweet 4 Press Pass!"

It's official! With Apple's announcement this morning, the iPad is no longer mere rumor or speculation. Of course, you'll have to wait until March to get your hands on one. Miss out on the live coverage? Check out the video clips below. Apple.com is also live now with official iPad specs. Sound off! So now that the actual specs are out, I'm curious to hear your verdict. Leave a comment below or join the conversation on twitter or facebook.

Super Bowl Special: 35% off all TV Warranties!

Enjoy our low prices on 3 year TV warranties!

Lost in Transcription: Is Google's Nexus One censoring you?

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Though I'm still enjoying my iPhone 3GS, I must admit there is much about Google's Nexus One that continues to impress me. There are many times, for example, when its built-in voice recognition software would sure come in handy for me. So, why does the Nexus One have some people saying "What the ####?"  As Reuters discovered when putting the smartphone through its paces, the Nexus One appears to have a built in muzzle for those with a potty-mouth!

Try uttering a curse word into the Nexus One, and the well-mannered device will automatically replace the offensive expression with a string of # symbols. Thus, a jocular text message inquiring about a buddy’s whereabouts is transcribed as “Hey #### where are you?” on the Nexus One; A spirited rejoinder to a dubious assertion becomes “that’s bull #### and you know it."  - Reuters

Why the no-cussing policy? According to a Google spokeswoman, this is not about censoring your colorful language. It's actually an effort to prevent offensive language from accidentally being transcribed. This is still a potential concern due to the kinks and current limitations still inherent with current voice recognition technology. We filter potentially offensive or inappropriate results because we want to avoid situations whereby we might misrecognize a spoken query and return profanity when, in fact, the user said something completely innocent,” said Google. “Ultimately our goal is to return results that show exactly what you said, and we’re constantly working to improve the technology to better fit our users’ needs.” How did they decide what's "offensive or inappropriate"? Personally, I'm curious about the process behind making this decision. Who decided which words would be deemed "offensive or inappropriate"  and which words were they afraid might be misrecognized? And, of course, I can't help but wonder which words ultimately made the potty-mouth list. Alas, I haven't had the opportunity (nor the nerve) to swear at a friend's Nexus One to find out. Sound off: Have you experienced this phenomenon first-hand? Do you include this newly discovered "feature" amongst the complaints about the Nexus One? Feel free to sound off below or join the conversation on Twitter!

More Deals for Today Only - Plus Exclusive Savings for Fans!

I know some of you may not have gotten all the things on your holiday wish list. If you're like me, you're on the lookout for deals and discounts so you can treat yourself, without breaking the bank.

A friend of mine just reminded me that Newegg.com is having a 24-hour Super Sale.

If you haven't already, check out the deals for yourself!

Items up for grabs include the 16" Toshiba Satellite A505-S6985 Notebook (Save $150, plus free shipping), a 46" Samsung 16:9 2ms 1080p 240Hz LCD HDTV ($1,579 with free shipping - additional $280 off with promo code EMCYZZX79) and much, much more!

Oh, and if you decide you want to protect your new finds with affordable peace of mind - be sure to check your e-mail. SquareTrade fans can score bonus savings today with Coupon NEWYEAR!

Want a heads up on other sweet deals? Be sure to become a SquareTrade fan on facebook or follow us on Twitter for details on exclusive coupons and FREE warranty giveaways!

Last Chance - New Year Warranty Sale! 30% Off Bonus Today Only!

So fans, how are things going with your New Year's resolutions? If you're one of the many who made a personal finance resolution, check this out -- we've bumped the savings up today with coupon NEWYEAR!

The best warranty for all your electronics! As reviewed by our customers: NexTag Date: 12/27/09 by acecase "I was skeptical about using a 3rd-party web-based provider for a warranty service. I worried most about the cost involved in proving my claim if I should need to file. When my server went down, and I had to file a claim, I was very pleasantly surprised. The claim process was very easy and I never had to send the 40lb server in for evaluation. My full refund was sent to me quickly and the process was painless. I highly recommend Square Trade." Epinions Date: 01/08/10 by corny40 "I purchased an Asus netbook and within the first 30 days, had a problem with it. Sent it back to Asus to be repaired and got it back without the problem being fixed. Sent it back to Asus a second time and they still couldn't fix it. Sick of dealing with Asus, I remembered I had purchased a Square Trade warranty and after calling them, was taken care of within a matter of days, hassle free I might add. I will never purchase another warranty from anyone but Square Trade in the future. I just wish they sold car warranties. LOL! " Epinions Date: 01/08/10 by louise9959 "I'm so glad that I purchased the Square Trade warranty. Unfortunately, I had to file a claim, but the interaction and customer service with Square Trade was outstanding. I was very satisfied with the transaction. Square Trade handled the claim and subsequent reimbusement very quickly. The transactions was conducted primarily by the internet which I liked. I did talk to customer service via the phone on a couple of occasions for information. The staff was always courteous and helpful. I will be purchasing additional warranties with Square Trade, and I would definitely recommend this service. I will be telling all of my family and friends. Thanks for such outstanding service."

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Remember: NEWYEAR is valid for 30% off, up to a maximum of $50 through 23.59 PT January 19th, 2010. After that, coupon code is valid for 20% off through 11.59pm PT Jan 24th, 2010 at www.squaretrade.com. Warranty must be purchased within 90 days of item purchase date. The purchase window of warranties for Items bought on eBay is 30 days. Coupon may not be combined with any other offer. Coupon cannot be applied retroactively to past purchases and are only applicable to warranties purchased directly from the SquareTrade website. Offer valid for warranties for items purchased from any retailer and to residents of the U.S., except Amazon.com, Buy.com, Abt Electronics, Vann's Inc, and Woot.com. We are currently unable to sell warranties to residents of Wisconsin and Maine due to state regulatory issues. Questions? If you have questions about our services, send us an email or call us at 877-WARRANTY. 2010 SquareTrade, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

Apple's newest creation to be revealed!

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As always, there's much speculation about what Apple has up its sleeve. Rumors have been flying about whether the company will soon unveil a tablet which may have (not-so-)secretly been in development for several years. Today, Apple made it official!  We now know when and where Apple will be unveiling their "latest creation!"

Amidst numerous rumors and speculations, Apple sent out invitations this morning which teased people to "Come see our latest creation."

The highly anticipated event will be held in San Francisco at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts next Wednesday morning, Jan. 27th - just a couple blocks down the street from SquareTrade's Headquarters!

Will we finally be introduced to what speculators have been calling an "iTablet" or "iSlate"? Regardless, I'm prepared to be dazzled by Apple and have these rumors put to rest (so we can start speculating about their next innovation)!

Mum's the word for now, but stay tuned!

As usual, Apple seems to be keeping a lid on confirming any other details so be sure to check back for further updates.

In the mean time, feel free to share your speculations in the comments below or join the conversation on twitter. What do you hope to see Apple unveil next week?

New Year Warranty Sale! With 30% Off Bonus Today Only!

Happy New Year, SquareTraders! Things are hopping here at SquareTrade Headquarters. Hope your New Year is off to an exciting start too!

Make any resolutions? Any gadgets and appliances helping you keep them? (I've decided to rock out during my workouts with a Nike iPod sport kit.)

Perhaps you've made a decision to be smarter about your investments and getting your money's worth. 75% of people planned at least one personal-finance resolution and I know I'm one of them!

Either way, we've got you covered! Just use coupon NEWYEAR by January 24th. To save even more, use the coupon by midnight tonight and get 30% savings! 

Questions? Send us an email or give us a call any time at 877-WARRANTY.

Remember:

• NEWYEAR is valid for 30% off, up to a maximum of $50, through 23.59 PT January 12th, 2010.
  
• After that, coupon code is valid for 20% off through 11.59pm PT Jan 24th, 2010 at www.squaretrade.com.
  
• Offer valid for warranties for items purchased from any retailer, except Amazon.com, Buy.com, Abt Electronics, Vann's Inc, and Woot.com
• Warranty must be purchased within 90 days of item purchase date. The purchase window of warranties for Items bought on eBay is 30 days.
  
• Coupon may not be combined with any other offer.
  
• Coupon cannot be applied retroactively to past purchases and are only applicable to warranties purchased directly from the SquareTrade website.

SquareTrade reveals what most retailers don't want you to know about warranties!

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In the market for a new appliance or gearing up for the Superbowl? You might find these 5 tips especially helpful in getting the best deal for your new electronics. Steve Abernethy - SquareTrade CEO - is featured today in Reader's Digest, revealing what most retailers* don't want you to know about warranties!

"If you are getting ready for Superbowl and plan on buying a flat screen TV or any other appliance for that matter...pushy salespeople may pressure you to buy an extended warranty.  That's where they make the bulk of their money.  You may not want an extended warranty at all.  If you do here are 5 tips..." - Reader's Digest

In case you missed it, check out the full article here. Most retailers...not all retailers: You may have noticed the asterisk above. That's because consumers aren't the only ones catching on - many top retailers are now taking part in SquareTrade's warranty revolution. After all, no one likes to be pushed around, right? These retailers (like Amazon, Buy.com, Geeks, etc) now partner with SquareTrade to offer fair pricing and the best warranty available! So, is it worth getting a warranty for that new ______ you purchased? Unlike traditional warranty providers, we won't pressure you into a decision. We're always happy to review the contract  with you and help you make an informed coverage choice. Just give us a call at 877-WARRANTY. No matter where you shop, you can always call us with questions about our coverage details. (Guess that means you can follow all 5 tips featured in Reader's Digest with one simple call!) So, what's your advice? Got another tip or first-hand experience to share? SquareTrade fans are savvy consumers, so don't be shy. Feel free to share your experience and advice to help others get the best deal! You can post your tip(s) in the comments below or join the conversation on Twitter!

Nexus One and the Search for Customer Service that Shines

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Over the past few days, there's been a lot of talk about Google's service and support issues for the Nexus One. See, for example, The Wall Street Journal's write up: Nexus One Customers Complain of Lack of Customer Service:

In the wake of Google’s launch of its new Nexus One phone last week, customers are starting to complain about Google’s lack of customer service. At CES on Friday, Walt Mossberg asked Google VP of engineering Andy Rubin specifically about complaints from people seeking support for the Nexus One. According to All Things D, “Rubin concedes that there is no phone support and that there is sometimes a 3-day delay in response time. ‘We have to get better at customer service,’ he says.” - Wall Street Journal

It's a big step for a company to publicly admit there's a problem.  While Google works to address these issues, we're curious to hear about your personal experiences. So, two questions for you: Have you had a first hand experience with Nexus One customer support? If you bought a Nexus, feel free to share your experience with others. Service that shines:  Which companies provide support and customer service you've come to rely on? Whether it's another cell phone provider or the associate that was exceptionally attentive in helping you pick out your new big screen TV  for the Super Bowl, I'm sure you've had a customer service experience that actually left you smiling and happy to recommend that company to others whenever possible.  So, here's your chance to do so! Sound off: Feel free to sound off below or join the conversation on Twitter!