Google offers free Pixel replacements to Hurricane Harvey victims

Many were disappointed by the lack of water resistance on Google’s Pixel smartphone when it was launched last year, but it may have proved to be a far more significant caveat than we first thought.

The tragic floods that hit Texas last month following Hurricane Harvey have had devastating consequences, including fatalities and the destruction of many homes and personal items; the lack of water resistance on Google’s phones means that they are among the devices more likely to have been taken out by the waters. But we do have some positive news.

Smartphone repair company uBreakiFix has partnered with the search giant to offer free device repairs for those with Pixels damaged through Hurricane Harvey. Until September 30, Pixel and Pixel XL owners can stop by at one of the uBreakiFix stores in the locations listed below to get their phone fixed:

• The Heights
• Rice Village
• Pearland
• Pasadena
• West Chase
• Sugar Land
• Webster

Though the terms of this haven’t been laid out, we presume those with phones that can’t be repaired will get a replacement device, but we’ve reached out for clarification on this. Update: The uBreakiFix support team has responded to our previous query, stating: “We are offering motherboard replacements on devices that are beyond economical repair due to liquid damage, etc,” so it looks like you’re covered no matter what kind of damage your phone has sustained.

Of course, a broken phone is a minor detail in the context of all the other terrible news, but it’s a nice gesture from Google and uBreakiFix all the same. If this affects you, be sure to visit one of the stores in the next couple of weeks — and pass on the word to any other Pixel owners out there.