Yesterday, Google discontinued its Pixel Pass subscription service for new Pixel purchases and won't allow existing subscriptions to be renewed.
Pixel Pass first appeared in 2021 when the Pixel 6 series smartphones launched. It was Google's attempt to offer an all-in-one hardware and services subscription option for Pixel enthusiasts.
Back then, you could get a new Pixel handset every two years with the "Preferred Care" protection plan, as well as access to YouTube Premium, Google Play Pass, and the 200GB tier of Google One for $45 per month. It was $55 per month if you wanted Pixel 6 Pro hardware.
As 9To5Google reports, Google hasn't offered a detailed explanation as to why Pixel Pass is being discontinued. The support page simply says:
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"We offer the best value of our hardware products and give users the flexibility to purchase their favorite services. We continue to evaluate offers based on customer feedback and provide different ways for them to access the best of Google."
Existing Pixel Pass subscribers need not worry, however, as the service will continue to the end of your two-year term. After that, your Pixel handset is fully paid off, but the protection coverage will end. Subscriptions to Google One, Play Pass, and YouTube Premium will continue, but the reduced price for each service will be maintained. The Google Fi Wireless discount will also continue after the subscription term ends.
Google isn't offering any refunds, but subscribers are eligible for $100 of credit. If you subscribed to Pixel Pass through the Google Store you'll get $100 of store credit. Alternatively, if you subscribed through Google Fi Wireless, you'll get a $100 coupon code to use towards a new Pixel device.
The Pixel Pass subscription ends just before Google is expected to unveil the Pixel 8 series smartphones. As usual, the details are slowly leaking ahead of the official unveiling, including news of the Pixel 8's audio magic eraser feature.