Asurion.com Reviews

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Based on looking at the website, Asurion.com presents itself as a comprehensive tech care and device protection service, aiming to be a one-stop shop for everything from smartphone screen repairs to whole-home tech support.

It appears to operate on a model of providing peace of mind through various plans, including device protection, home tech coverage, and appliance protection, often partnering with major carriers and retailers.

The site emphasizes ease of claims, quality fixes, and readily available tech assistance, suggesting a focus on customer convenience and reliability.

Asurion positions itself as a trusted partner for consumers, boasting that “300 million people worldwide” rely on their services.

The website highlights key offerings such as same-day repairs via uBreakiFix by Asurion stores, expert installation help, and a free tech recycling program.

For someone seeking to protect their electronic investments and ensure they have support when things go sideways, Asurion aims to offer a broad spectrum of solutions designed to keep technology running smoothly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and the hassle of tech mishaps.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Understanding Asurion’s Core Business Model

Asurion primarily operates as a device protection and tech support provider, offering various plans and services designed to safeguard electronic devices and appliances from common issues like damage, malfunction, and theft. Their business model revolves around risk management and customer service, providing peace of mind to consumers who rely heavily on technology in their daily lives. They often partner directly with major mobile carriers, retailers, and financial institutions to integrate their protection plans at the point of sale or alongside existing services. This allows them to reach a massive customer base, often bundled into existing monthly bills.

How Asurion Generates Revenue

Asurion’s revenue streams are multifaceted, primarily stemming from monthly or one-time premiums paid by customers for their protection plans. These plans cover a wide array of devices, from smartphones and tablets to home appliances and smart tech. A significant portion of their income also comes from deductibles or service fees paid by customers when filing a claim. Furthermore, their uBreakiFix by Asurion retail locations generate revenue through direct repair services for walk-in customers, regardless of whether they have an Asurion protection plan. This diversified approach to income generation allows them to maintain a robust operational infrastructure.

The Ecosystem of Asurion Partnerships

Asurion’s extensive reach is largely due to its strategic partnerships with some of the biggest names in telecommunications and retail. For instance, they are the backbone of Verizon Mobile Protect, offering comprehensive device coverage to millions of Verizon subscribers. Similarly, they power protection plans for Amazon e.g., Amazon Complete Protect, ensuring gadgets purchased on the platform are covered. These partnerships allow Asurion to be seamlessly integrated into the purchasing process, making device protection an easy add-on for consumers. This network of alliances is crucial for their market penetration and brand visibility.

Amazon

A Deep Dive into Asurion’s Device Protection Plans

Asurion offers a range of device protection plans tailored to different needs, from individual smartphones to entire homes filled with connected tech.

These plans are designed to provide financial relief and practical support when accidents happen or devices simply stop working.

Their coverage typically goes beyond standard manufacturer warranties, addressing scenarios like accidental damage, liquid spills, and even theft, which are often not covered by basic warranties.

Smartphone and Mobile Device Coverage

For mobile devices, Asurion’s plans, such as those integrated with Verizon Mobile Protect, generally cover:

  • Accidental Damage: This is a big one. Think cracked screens a common occurrence, with studies showing that nearly 50% of smartphone users have experienced a cracked screen at some point, liquid damage, and other physical mishaps.
  • Loss and Theft: This offers a crucial layer of security, providing a replacement device if your phone goes missing.
  • Mechanical and Electrical Failure: This kicks in after the manufacturer’s warranty expires, covering internal malfunctions.
  • Technical Support: Often included, providing access to experts for setup, troubleshooting, and optimization.
    Customers typically pay a monthly premium and a deductible at the time of a claim. The deductible amount varies based on the device type and the nature of the claim.

Whole Home and Appliance Protection

Beyond mobile devices, Asurion extends its umbrella to whole home tech and major appliances through plans like Asurion Home+ and Asurion Appliance+.

  • Asurion Home+ aims to cover nearly all eligible devices in your home, from laptops and TVs to gaming consoles and smart home gadgets. It often includes:
    • Protection against everyday wear and tear, and accidental damage.
    • 24/7 tech support for setup, troubleshooting, and optimization.
    • Data recovery services.
    • Support for a vast array of brands and device types.
  • Asurion Appliance+ focuses specifically on major home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens. This is particularly valuable given the high cost of appliance repairs. a single repair can often cost hundreds of dollars. Coverage typically includes:
    • Mechanical and electrical breakdowns.
    • Parts and labor for repairs.
    • The ability to schedule expert service.

These plans often present a more cost-effective alternative to individual extended warranties for each appliance, especially for households with multiple expensive devices. Speedcubeshop.com Reviews

Plan Inclusions and Exclusions

It’s crucial for consumers to read the fine print of any Asurion plan. While comprehensive, there are always exclusions. Common exclusions across various plans might include:

  • Pre-existing conditions.
  • Cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect functionality.
  • Damage from war, natural disasters though some specific plans might cover certain natural occurrences.
  • Unauthorized modifications to devices.
  • Intentional damage.

Understanding these details before enrolling is key to avoiding surprises later.

The website does a decent job of outlining the general scope, but the full terms and conditions are where the specifics lie.

The Claims Process: How Easy is it to Get Help?

One of the most critical aspects of any protection plan is the ease and efficiency of its claims process.

Asurion heavily promotes its “easy claims” experience on its website, aiming to streamline the process from initial notification to resolution.

Initiating a Claim Online

Based on the website, initiating a claim appears straightforward.

Users are directed to a “Start a claim” portal where they can input details about their device and the incident.

This digital-first approach aligns with modern consumer expectations for convenience. The process typically involves:

  1. Providing Device Information: Serial number, make, model, etc.
  2. Describing the Incident: What happened to the device.
  3. Answering Eligibility Questions: Confirming plan coverage and incident details.

Asurion’s system aims to guide users through these steps, often providing immediate feedback on eligibility and next steps.

Repair vs. Replacement Decisions

Once a claim is filed, Asurion’s operational team assesses whether a repair or replacement is the most appropriate solution. This decision often hinges on several factors: Leshuttle.com Reviews

  • Type of Damage: A cracked screen might lead to a repair, while severe liquid damage or theft typically results in a replacement.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: If the cost of repair exceeds the value of the device or a replacement, a replacement is often opted for.
  • Device Availability: For replacements, Asurion endeavors to provide the same model or a comparable one.
    Asurion states they aim for “quality fixes” and “as soon as same-day” service for screen repairs, suggesting a bias towards repairing where feasible and efficient.

Turnaround Times and Customer Communication

Asurion highlights “same-day service” for many repairs, particularly screen fixes, which is a significant selling point. For replacements, the turnaround time can vary, but generally, customers can expect to receive a replacement device within a few business days, often with expedited shipping options. Communication throughout the process is key, and Asurion’s online portal allows users to track their claim status in real-time. Customer testimonials on the site often praise the speed of resolution, with one user noting, “The same day service is amazing! I was floored when I was told within hours I’d get a new phone!” This suggests a focus on minimizing user downtime, which is critical for highly depended-upon devices.

The Role of uBreakiFix by Asurion in the Service Ecosystem

A cornerstone of Asurion’s service delivery, particularly for repairs, is its network of uBreakiFix by Asurion stores. These physical locations serve as critical touchpoints for customers, offering hands-on repair services and expert technical assistance.

In-Store Repair Capabilities

UBreakiFix stores are staffed by trained technicians capable of diagnosing and repairing a wide range of electronic devices. Their primary focus includes:

  • Smartphone Repairs: Cracked screens, battery replacements, charging port issues, camera malfunctions, etc. This is a huge segment, given that smartphone repairs make up a significant portion of their business.
  • Tablet Repairs: Similar to smartphones, addressing common hardware failures.
  • Computer Repairs: Laptops and desktops, covering everything from software glitches to hardware upgrades.
  • Gaming Console Repairs: Addressing issues with popular gaming systems.
    The benefit of these stores is the “no appointment needed” or quick scheduling options, coupled with the ability to often complete repairs on the same day, sometimes within hours. This immediate gratification is a major draw for consumers.

Leveraging the uBreakiFix Network for Claims

For customers with Asurion protection plans, uBreakiFix stores often serve as the preferred method for repair fulfillment. If a device can be repaired, policyholders can typically bring their damaged item to a local uBreakiFix store, pay their deductible if applicable, and have the repair completed on-site. This eliminates the need to ship devices, reducing downtime and providing a direct, in-person service experience. The integration of uBreakiFix into Asurion’s ecosystem streamlines the repair process, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

Accessibility and Geographic Reach

Asurion states that their uBreakiFix network comprises over 700 locations across North America, making their repair services widely accessible. This extensive geographic reach means that a significant portion of the population lives within a reasonable distance of a uBreakiFix store, facilitating convenient in-person support. The website features a “Find a store” tool, allowing users to quickly locate the nearest service center, emphasizing their commitment to local, hands-on assistance.

Exploring Asurion’s Tech Support and Expert Help

Beyond physical repairs, Asurion heavily promotes its tech support capabilities, positioning itself as a source of “tech help that’s actually helpful.” This extends beyond merely fixing broken things to assisting with setup, troubleshooting, and maximizing device performance.

24/7 Tech Support Availability

A key selling point for Asurion’s tech support is its 24/7 availability. This means customers can get assistance any time of day or night, which is invaluable for issues that arise unexpectedly. Whether it’s a Wi-Fi connectivity problem at midnight or a new device setup on a Sunday morning, the constant access to expert help is a significant benefit. This kind of round-the-clock support sets them apart from basic manufacturer support lines that often have limited hours.

Scope of Technical Assistance

Asurion’s tech support is designed to cover a broad spectrum of issues, not just those related to device damage. Their experts can assist with:

  • Device Setup and Configuration: Helping users get new phones, smart home devices, or computers up and running.
  • Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues: Resolving problems with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data.
  • Software Glitches and Performance Optimization: Addressing slow devices, app crashes, and general performance enhancements.
  • Data Transfer and Backup: Guiding users through backing up their data or transferring it to a new device.
  • Smart Home Integration: Assisting with connecting and managing various smart home devices.

The goal is to resolve common tech frustrations that users encounter daily, preventing minor annoyances from escalating into major problems.

Channels for Receiving Support

Asurion offers multiple channels for customers to access their tech support: 1vpn.org Reviews

  • Phone Support: Direct access to live agents, which is often the most common method.
  • Online Chat: For quick questions and troubleshooting.
  • Remote Assistance: In some cases, experts can remotely access devices with user permission to diagnose and fix issues, streamlining the process.
  • In-Store Support: As mentioned, uBreakiFix locations also offer walk-in tech help for setup and general advice, even if a repair isn’t needed.

This multi-channel approach ensures that customers can choose the most convenient way to get the help they need, emphasizing Asurion’s commitment to accessibility and customer service.

Customer Experience and Reputation Analysis

When evaluating a service like Asurion, understanding the customer experience is paramount.

While the website presents a polished image, external reviews and real-world feedback provide a more complete picture.

Positive Customer Testimonials and What They Highlight

Asurion’s website features several positive testimonials, emphasizing particular aspects of their service. These typically highlight:

  • Speed of Service: “The same day service is amazing!” and “Asurion was quick to handle.” This is a recurring theme, suggesting efficiency in processing claims and repairs.
  • Helpful and Polite Representatives: “The representative… was very polite and helpful, the issue was addressed immediately.” Good customer service can significantly impact the overall experience.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: “The most amazing plan I’ve ever purchased in my entire life” implies satisfaction with the breadth of protection.

These curated testimonials, while positive, represent a selection and not necessarily the full spectrum of customer opinions.

Common Criticisms and Areas for Improvement

Looking beyond the website, common criticisms of Asurion found on independent review platforms often include:

  • Deductible Costs: While premiums might seem low, deductibles can sometimes be substantial, leading to sticker shock for some customers when filing a claim. For example, replacing a high-end smartphone could incur a deductible of $99-$299 or more, depending on the carrier and device.
  • Replacement Device Quality: Some users report receiving refurbished devices as replacements, which, while standard industry practice, can disappoint those expecting a brand-new item. The condition and functionality of these refurbished units are sometimes a point of contention.
  • Claim Denials or Complexities: While the website touts “easy claims,” some users report challenges or denials, particularly if the incident’s specifics don’t perfectly align with policy terms, leading to frustration.
  • Communication Gaps: Despite the claim tracking, some customers report feeling in the dark or experiencing delays in communication during their claim process.
    These criticisms are common for large service providers, but it’s important for potential customers to be aware of them. For instance, while Asurion boasts a 4.1-star rating on Google Reviews for many of its uBreakiFix locations, general Asurion reviews on sites like Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau often show a mixed bag, with ratings ranging from 1 to 3 stars out of 5, indicating a polarized experience for some users.

Industry Standing and Consumer Trust

Asurion is a dominant player in the device protection industry, managing over 300 million customer relationships worldwide. Its partnerships with major carriers like Verizon and AT&T, and retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, attest to its significant industry standing. This ubiquity provides a level of inherent trust for many consumers, as they are often introduced to Asurion services through brands they already trust. However, like any large service provider, maintaining consistent customer satisfaction across millions of interactions is a continuous challenge. The volume of positive interactions likely outweighs the negative ones, but the negative experiences tend to be vocalized more often on public forums.

Amazon

Alternatives to Asurion: Weighing Your Options

While Asurion is a dominant force in device protection, it’s wise to consider alternatives to ensure you’re getting the best coverage and value for your specific needs.

These alternatives range from self-insurance to manufacturer-specific plans and third-party warranties. Broadway.com Reviews

Self-Insurance and Savings

For many, especially those who are financially disciplined, self-insurance is a viable and often more economical alternative. This involves:

  • Setting aside a dedicated emergency fund: Instead of paying monthly premiums to Asurion, you save an equivalent amount e.g., $10-$20 per month in a separate savings account.
  • Using funds for repairs or replacements: If your device breaks, you draw from this fund. If it doesn’t, you keep the money.
  • Considering a lower-cost phone: If you’re prone to damage, a less expensive, yet still functional, smartphone could be a good hedge against high repair or replacement costs.
    The main benefit here is that if you never make a claim, you keep all your money, which can amount to hundreds, even thousands, of dollars over several years. The downside is that you need the discipline to save, and a catastrophic loss early on could leave you short. A 2022 study by Assurant found that only 18% of smartphone users currently have device protection, suggesting a large portion of the market either self-insures or takes the risk.

Manufacturer and Carrier-Specific Plans

Many device manufacturers and mobile carriers offer their own direct protection plans, often competing with or complementing Asurion’s offerings.

  • AppleCare+: For Apple devices, this plan offers coverage for accidental damage with a service fee, often for two years. It’s known for integrating seamlessly with Apple’s repair ecosystem.
  • Samsung Care+: Similar to AppleCare+, providing coverage for Samsung devices, often including premium features like same-day cracked screen repair or doorstep pick-up for some services.
  • T-Mobile Protection 360, AT&T Protect Advantage, etc.: These carrier-specific plans often combine device protection with other perks like cloud storage, identity theft protection, and tech support. They are similar to Asurion’s offerings but managed directly by the carrier, sometimes even with Asurion as the underlying insurer.

These plans often offer tight integration with the specific brand or carrier’s services, potentially leading to a more streamlined experience for some users.

Independent Third-Party Warranty Providers

A burgeoning market of independent third-party warranty providers offers alternatives to carrier or manufacturer plans.

  • SquareTrade an Allstate company: A well-known provider offering protection plans for a wide range of electronics, often with competitive pricing and straightforward claims processes.
  • Upsie: An app-based warranty provider that aims to offer transparent pricing and allows users to purchase warranties for devices purchased anywhere.
  • Consumer Cellular, Boost Mobile, etc.: Many MVNOs Mobile Virtual Network Operators also offer their own brand of device protection, often through partnerships with smaller insurers.

These providers can sometimes offer more flexible terms or lower prices, especially for devices not purchased through a major carrier or for older models.

It’s crucial to compare their coverage terms, deductibles, and claim processes carefully against Asurion’s to find the best fit.

Is Asurion Right for You? A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Deciding whether an Asurion protection plan is a worthwhile investment boils down to a personal cost-benefit analysis, considering your risk tolerance, financial situation, and device habits.

Assessing Your Risk Tolerance and Device Habits

  • Are you prone to accidents? If you frequently drop your phone, spill liquids, or have a history of breaking devices, a protection plan might offer significant peace of mind and financial relief. The average cost of a screen replacement for a high-end smartphone can easily range from $150 to $350.
  • How critical is your device? For someone who relies on their phone for work, health monitoring, or crucial communication, minimizing downtime is paramount. Asurion’s quick repair/replacement times could be a major benefit.
  • Do you have young children or pets? Households with active kids or curious pets often see a higher incidence of device damage, making protection plans more appealing.
  • Are you tech-savvy? If you’re comfortable troubleshooting minor issues yourself, some aspects of the tech support might be less valuable to you.

Comparing Costs: Premiums vs. Potential Repair/Replacement Fees

Let’s do some quick math.

  • Average monthly premium: $10-$20 for a smartphone plan, or $25-$50+ for a whole home plan.
  • Annual cost: $120-$240 for a phone, or $300-$600+ for a home plan.
  • Deductibles: Can range from $0 to $300 per claim.

Consider a scenario where you have a $1,000 phone and an Asurion plan costing $15/month with a $150 deductible for accidental damage.

  • Year 1 without a claim: You spend $180 $15 x 12.
  • Year 1 with one screen repair: You spend $180 premiums + $150 deductible = $330.

Compared to an out-of-pocket screen repair of $250, you might have spent more for one repair. Opibuzz.com Reviews

However, if your phone is lost or stolen, and a new one costs $1,000, your total cost with Asurion $180 + $150 = $330 is a significant saving.

The Value of Peace of Mind and Convenience

For many, the primary benefit of Asurion isn’t just about saving money on a single repair, but the peace of mind knowing that complex issues are covered.

  • Convenience: The ease of filing a claim, access to quick repairs via uBreakiFix, and 24/7 tech support can save significant time and hassle.
  • Protection for multiple devices: Plans like Asurion Home+ can be particularly cost-effective if you have many expensive devices that would be individually costly to insure or repair.
  • Expert support: For those who aren’t tech-savvy, having readily available experts to help with setup, troubleshooting, and optimization is a considerable value add.

Ultimately, if the potential financial hit of an uninsured device failure is too much to bear, or if you simply prefer the convenience of having someone else manage potential tech headaches, Asurion’s plans offer a compelling solution.

However, if you are financially disciplined and careful with your devices, self-insurance might be a more fiscally conservative approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Asurion.com actually do?

Asurion.com provides device protection plans and tech support services for a wide range of electronics and appliances, including smartphones, laptops, TVs, and major home appliances.

They offer coverage for accidental damage, mechanical failure, loss, and theft, along with 24/7 tech support and repair services through their uBreakiFix network.

How does Asurion work?

Asurion works by charging customers a monthly premium or a one-time fee for a protection plan.

If a covered device breaks, is lost, or stolen, customers file a claim, pay a deductible, and Asurion arranges for repair or replacement, often through mail-in service or in-person at uBreakiFix by Asurion stores.

Is Asurion owned by Verizon?

No, Asurion is an independent company.

However, Asurion is a major partner with Verizon and provides the device protection plans, like Verizon Mobile Protect, for Verizon customers. Nottinghamreds.co.uk Reviews

Is Asurion insurance worth it?

Whether Asurion insurance is worth it depends on your individual risk tolerance and financial situation.

It can be very valuable for those prone to accidents or who want peace of mind for expensive devices, especially when considering the high cost of out-of-pocket repairs or replacements.

For others, self-insurance might be more cost-effective.

How much does Asurion charge for a cracked screen?

Asurion charges a deductible for a cracked screen repair, which varies depending on your specific plan and device.

This deductible can range from $29 to $99 or more for smartphones.

How quickly does Asurion replace a phone?

Asurion often aims for fast turnaround times.

For screen repairs, same-day service is often available at uBreakiFix stores.

For replacements, phones are typically shipped within 1-2 business days, depending on availability and shipping options.

What is the deductible for Asurion?

The deductible for Asurion plans varies significantly based on the device, the type of damage, and the specific protection plan you have.

It can range from $0 for minor issues to $99-$299 for major damage, loss, or theft of high-value devices. Getgalatea.com Reviews

Does Asurion cover water damage?

Yes, many Asurion device protection plans cover accidental liquid damage often referred to as water damage. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your plan to confirm coverage.

Can I cancel Asurion at any time?

Yes, in most cases, you can cancel your Asurion protection plan at any time.

You may receive a prorated refund of any unearned premiums depending on your plan’s terms and state regulations.

Does Asurion cover lost phones?

Yes, many Asurion smartphone protection plans include coverage for lost devices.

If your phone is lost and cannot be recovered, you can file a claim for a replacement, subject to your plan’s deductible.

Is uBreakiFix the same as Asurion?

UBreakiFix is a repair chain that was acquired by Asurion.

So, while they operate under the name uBreakiFix by Asurion, they are now part of the broader Asurion service ecosystem, acting as Asurion’s primary in-person repair arm.

Does Asurion replace with new phones or refurbished?

Asurion typically replaces devices with refurbished models that are certified to be in like-new condition.

While the device may not be brand new, it is thoroughly tested and guaranteed to function properly.

How many claims can you file with Asurion?

The number of claims you can file with Asurion usually has a limit per 12-month period. Unimeal.com Reviews

This limit varies by plan and device type but is commonly set at 2 or 3 claims per year. Check your specific plan terms for details.

Does Asurion offer a warranty on repairs?

Yes, Asurion and uBreakiFix by Asurion typically offer a warranty on their repairs.

This warranty usually covers the parts and labor for the specific repair performed for a set period, often 90 days.

Can I get tech support from Asurion without a protection plan?

While Asurion’s core tech support is tied to their protection plans, you can often get walk-in repair and general tech help at uBreakiFix by Asurion stores without having an Asurion protection plan, though you will pay out-of-pocket for these services.

What devices does Asurion Home+ cover?

Asurion Home+ typically covers nearly all eligible devices in your home that connect to Wi-Fi or have a power button, including laptops, tablets, TVs, gaming consoles, smart home devices, and wearables.

It’s designed to be a comprehensive tech protection plan for your entire household.

How long does an Asurion claim take to be approved?

Many Asurion claims, especially straightforward ones, can be approved very quickly, sometimes within minutes or hours, particularly if filed online and all information is readily available. More complex claims might take longer for review.

Is the Asurion app useful?

Yes, the Asurion app can be useful for managing your protection plan, filing and tracking claims, accessing tech support, and finding nearby uBreakiFix locations.

It centralizes many of their services for convenience.

Can Asurion help with setting up new devices?

Yes, Asurion’s tech support, especially through plans like Asurion Home+, is designed to help with the setup and configuration of new devices, ensuring they are properly connected and functioning. Did.ie Reviews

Are Asurion’s replacement phones locked to a carrier?

Replacement phones provided by Asurion are generally compatible with the original carrier the device was associated with.

If you received a replacement through a carrier-specific plan e.g., Verizon Mobile Protect, the device will typically be locked to that carrier, similar to your original device.

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