Samsung Care+ Gets Major Upgrade in Europe: Unlimited Damage Cover and New Theft Protection

Samsung has significantly upgraded its Care+ protection plan for European customers, introducing a range of new features designed to provide more comprehensive device coverage and greater peace of mind. The enhanced plan, which launches today across 17 European markets, represents a substantial improvement over the previous offering.

Unlimited Accidental Damage Coverage

The most notable change is the introduction of unlimited accidental damage coverage. Customers can now claim for knocks, drops, and spills without worrying about hitting a claim limit. This is a significant departure from many competitor plans that typically cap the number of claims per year. The excess fee for these claims has also been streamlined, making the process more straightforward and potentially more affordable for users.

Extended International Coverage

Samsung has removed the previous 60-day trip limit for international coverage, meaning Care+ now provides seamless protection both at home and abroad without time restrictions. This is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who previously had to worry about their coverage expiring during extended trips.

Expanded Repair Network

The repair infrastructure has been significantly expanded with 175 new walk-in locations added across Europe. This brings the total number of accessible repair points to a much more convenient level for customers who prefer in-person service. For those who can't visit a location, the option to send devices in for repair remains available.

Battery Health Coverage

A particularly useful addition is the free battery replacement for devices that fall below 80% capacity after the standard manufacturer warranty expires. This addresses one of the most common issues with aging smartphones and provides tangible value for long-term Care+ subscribers.

Extended Mechanical and Electrical Coverage

Samsung has clarified that Care+ will cover mechanical and electrical failures that occur after the standard warranty period expires, for the duration of the Care+ policy term. This extends the effective lifespan of device protection beyond the typical one-year manufacturer warranty.

Flexible Payment Options

Customers now have more flexibility in how they pay for coverage. A new monthly payment option allows for up to 60 months of coverage, with the ability to cancel at any time. This complements the existing fixed-term, two-year option, giving users more control over their protection plans.

New Theft and Loss Protection

The addition of theft and loss coverage is perhaps the most significant new feature. This optional add-on ensures dispatch of a replacement device within 48 hours after a claim is approved. However, there are some limitations: a maximum of two successful claims for theft or loss are allowed per year, and customers must activate Samsung Knox Guard within 30 days of starting their Care+ policy.

Market Availability

The enhanced Care+ plan is being rolled out across 17 European markets, though Samsung has not specified which countries are included. This suggests a phased approach to the launch, with potential expansion to additional markets in the future.

Competitive Positioning

This enhanced Care+ offering positions Samsung more competitively against Apple's AppleCare+ service, which has long been considered the benchmark for manufacturer device protection plans. The unlimited damage claims, extended international coverage, and new theft protection features bring Samsung's offering closer to parity with Apple's comprehensive coverage options.

Consumer Benefits

For European Samsung users, these enhancements represent a significant value proposition. The combination of unlimited accidental damage claims, extended coverage periods, and the new theft protection option provides comprehensive protection that could save users substantial amounts on repair or replacement costs over the life of their devices.

Activation Requirements

The theft and loss protection requires activation of Samsung Knox Guard within 30 days of policy start. Knox Guard is Samsung's device protection and management solution, which adds an extra layer of security but requires users to be proactive in setting it up.

The enhanced Samsung Care+ plan demonstrates Samsung's commitment to providing comprehensive after-sales support for its devices in the European market. By addressing common pain points like battery degradation, international coverage limitations, and theft protection, Samsung is creating a more compelling ecosystem that could influence purchasing decisions for consumers considering their next smartphone upgrade.