- Google, ahead of the third Saturday of October known as “International Repair Day,” introduced its initiatives on its official blog to help users keep their Google Pixel devices for a long time.
- Google’s initiatives focus on three key areas: device design centered on repairability, the expansion of repair and support systems, and the growth of the “Google Certified Refurbished Program.”
- This year’s “International Repair Day” falls on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
On Thursday, October 15, 2026 local time, ahead of “International Repair Day” (established in 2017 and observed every third Saturday of October), Google introduced its initiatives on its official blog aimed at helping users enjoy their Google Pixel devices for longer.
The three initiatives highlighted by Google are: device design focused on repairability, the expansion of repair and support systems, and the growth of the “Google Certified Refurbished Program.” In terms of design, the “Fitbit Edge” has newly joined the lineup of repairable products alongside the “Google Pixel Watch” series.
Additionally, the sale of “Certified Refurbished” products has also begun on the Japanese “Google Store” starting in October 2026. This year’s “International Repair Day” is Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Device Design Centered on Repairability
The “Google Pixel Watch 4” and “Google Pixel Watch 5” were designed from the early stages of development by identifying and addressing areas that typically hinder repairs.
Unlike typical smartwatches that use adhesives to secure components, the “Google Pixel Watch 4” and “Google Pixel Watch 5” feature a modular structure. The online repair information platform “iFixit” gave them a repairability score of 9 out of 10, praising them as the most repairable smartwatches.
Furthermore, the “Fitbit Edge,” officially announced on Monday, October 12, 2026, also adopts a modular structure and a replaceable battery, making it the company’s first repairable fitness tracker.
Expansion of Repair and Support Systems
The device protection service “Pixel Care+” covers damages such as cracked screens, water exposure, and accidental drops.
The “Support” tab in the “My Pixel” app allows users to run diagnostics, troubleshoot via chat with an AI agent, and request repairs all in one place.
The “Google Store” now features new country-specific repair support pages, allowing users to check multiple repair options and estimated costs. The self-repair program has also been integrated into “Your Devices” on the “Google Store,” enabling users to check their device information and immediately start self-repairs.
Additionally, walk-in repair locations and authorized service providers around the world offer repairs using genuine parts. When upgrading, users can trade in eligible devices for “Google Store Credit” through the “Google Store Trade-in Program.” Devices traded in through the program are either refurbished and resold or properly recycled.
Expansion of the “Google Certified Refurbished Program”
“Google Certified Refurbished” devices are Google Pixel devices restored through the “Google Certified Refurbished Program” using genuine Google parts, updated to the latest Android OS, and delivered in 100% plastic-free packaging.
Now, the US “Google Store” has added the “Pixel 9” series to the lineup, making them available at discounts of up to 45%. Additionally, the “Google Certified Refurbished Program” has launched in Japan, with sales of “Google Certified Refurbished” products starting on the “Google Store” from Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
“Google Certified Refurbished” products come with the same 1-year warranty as brand-new devices.
Source: Google (https://blog.google/products-and-platforms/devices/pixel/international-repair-day-2026/)