uBreakiFix Teams Up with Google, Samsung to Provide Free Repairs for Frontline Heroes
Now that thousands of people have transitioned to working from home, smartphones, laptops, and computers, along with all of their peripheral equipment, have become crucial tools for communication and day-to-day life. Yes, even more so than usual. So, accidents are bound to happen from time to time.
Luckily, here in Oxford we have a valuable resource in uBreakiFix (formerly Express Computer Services), owned and run by Oxford’s Favorite Computer Nerd Kyle McGrevey.
In a recent blog post from the uBreakiFix brand, the company announced a partnership with two of the biggest smartphone manufacturers: Google and Samsung.
“As the fight to contain the COVID-19 global pandemic continues, frontline workers put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. To recognize these heroic efforts Samsung, Google, and uBreakiFix are teaming up to provide a free repair to first responders and frontline workers in the USA. We hope that this will alleviate any stress that a frontline hero may be facing from dealing with a broken Samsung or Google smartphone.”
This program is available to all “frontline heroes,” including first responders, law enforcement, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, hospital staff, and nursing home staff. Eligible devices include: Galaxy S, Galaxy N, Galaxy J and Galaxy A series devices as well as Google Pixel smartphones regardless of model. The program will continue through June 30, 2020.
All these folks need to do to claim their free repair is to call the shop at (662) 236-5670 to make an appointment and bring proof of eligibility in the form of a badge or work ID. You can also drive up to the shop at 1501 Jackson Avenue West and a team member can help.
Most smartphone repairs can be done the same day, as quickly as 20 minutes or a couple of hours.
uBreakiFix also offers curbside service to help maintain social distancing and has implemented more stringent cleaning and safety protocols to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. McGrevey and his team have adapted their service to continue to provide the quality service locals have come to expect, while remaining safe and respectful of customers’ needs.
Even with social distancing protocols in place, McGrevey says business has been steady for him and his team. “It was calmer in here for about a week or so,” he said. “But then everyone started working from their house and needing their computers and it just started ramping up.”
“We don’t let any customers in the shop,” said McGrevey. “We try to do curbside everything—when a device comes in we clean it up before it goes to the back, and then we clean it again before it goes out to them. And we are doing all communications remotely, either on the phone or from outside their car a few feet away.”
The shop is seeing the same sort of repairs as usual, just in a higher volume than usual. Cracked screens, phone won’t turn on, liquid damage are some of the main culprits.
One newer request lately has been video problems. With the increase in Zoom users, many people have come to the shop seeking advice on how to use the popular app, or with issues with their web cams. McGrevey said they have many customers who have never used their web cam before and suddenly find out that it doesn’t work, or they don’t know how to set it up.
McGrevey also gave us a few tips to share for keeping your devices and equipment in top shape.
“Avoid spilling drinks! We see that all the time. I know we are eating and drinking around these but just do your best to be mindful of what you’re doing and don’t spill anything. And BACK UP YOUR DATA.”
There you have it, folks. Stay safe out there and keep your computers and phones running smoothly. And spread the word to your favorite first responder or healthcare workers!
