Google Ends Pixel Pass Subscription: What You Need to Know
As the tech world eagerly anticipates the launch of the Google Pixel 8 in October, Google has dropped a surprising announcement:
The discontinuation of its Pixel Pass subscription service. Let’s break down what this means for users and what might be on the horizon.
The Pixel Pass Farewell
Pixel Pass, a two-year subscription available in the United States, offered subscribers a Pixel 6 for $45 per month or a Pixel 6 Pro for $55 per month.
Alongside these smartphones, it bundled several Google services, including YouTube Premium, Google One, and Google Play Pass. It was an attractive package for those seeking a new phone and an array of Google services at a reduced price.
However, the deal is no longer available for new subscribers. If you’re already a Pixel Pass subscriber, don’t fret just yet. Google has assured that it will honor the two-year contracts of existing subscribers.
After your two-year term concludes, you’ll receive a $100 credit toward a new Pixel phone, valid for two years and can be used in conjunction with promotions.
Additionally, you’ll maintain your subscriptions to Google One, Google Play Pass, and YouTube Premium at the current discounted rate until you choose to cancel them separately.
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Google Ends Pixel Pass Subscription : Changes in the Fine Print
Unfortunately, one perk that won’t continue is the $5 service discount that Pixel Pass users enjoyed on their Google Fi Wireless bills.
A Predictable Ending
The discontinuation of Pixel Pass doesn’t come as a shock. It was apparent that the service was on shaky ground.
When Google unveiled the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro last year, it didn’t incorporate these phones into the Pixel Pass offerings.
Moreover, Pixel Pass was exclusively available in the United States.
If Google had long-term plans for Pixel Pass, it might have expanded and enhanced the service over time. Instead, it gradually phased out the offering.
The Whys and What’s Next
As for why Google chose to end Pixel Pass, the official FAQ suggests it aims to provide users with more flexibility to purchase their preferred services.
The all-in-one nature of Pixel Pass may have limited this flexibility. However, it’s likely that the service’s lack of popularity also played a significant role in its discontinuation.
This might explain why Google never ventured to expand or update Pixel Pass beyond its initial U.S.-only offering.
There’s speculation that Google could introduce a new subscription model to replace Pixel Pass in the near future. Hints in the Pixel Pass FAQ seem to suggest this possibility.
If such a replacement is in the works, we can expect an announcement around the launch of the Google Pixel 8.
In any case, stay tuned for updates on Google’s evolving offerings. Whether it’s a Pixel Pass replacement or the eagerly awaited Google Pixel 8, we’ll keep you informed about what’s next in the world of Google’s tech innovations.