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PhillyKat Posted
This is my first iPad with WiFi and Cellular technically... I'd purchased a refurbished elsewhere only to discover that it was still locked to another carrier, so I decided to spend a little more and buy one brand new. Thankfully I was able to get a full refund for the refurbished one purchased online. There were some great benefits of spending more and buying it new from Best Buy. For only $260 more in addition to guaranteeing that the tablet is unlocked, I also got a 2 year APPLE warranty, plus a 15 month subscription to Microsoft Office, so it was well worth it! The benefit was there for that amount because of the timing of buying the new one with a BLACK FRIDAY reduction. And Apple didn't offer it at any discount so BEST BUY is the winner here. Challenges: IPads are NOT phones. I did want to have the cellular option for when I'm traveling, to use it as a HOTSPOT, so it's not my intention to buy a year long plan to use this tablet regularly. Most of the time when moving around locally I have no problem signing up for one of the WiFi hotspots I'm familiar with in my own city. So far, I've only tried one carrier that sells service for phones or tablets. CHALLENGE #1 - The TABLET is great but I had to speak to more than 8 different agents over the course of a few weeks, before I was actually able to use the cellular feature - because the providers and their agents (MINT MOBILE) was not aware of the code ONLY THE PROVIDER CAN GIVE YOU The APN (access point name) which is the code one needs to use the SIM card and sadly, the providers agents and help seem to have no idea what that is or how to share this vital information with those who buy their SIM card from the company. CHALLENGE #2 - I don't know if this is how it works with *every* carrier, but the CARRIER assigns a phone number - but an iPad cannot be a phone no matter what - a phone number does not work on iPads except to communicate for TECH SUPPORT (it seems) directly with the provider only -- the problem is that I cannot access the SIM account to monitor it or anything, because the company TEXTS *only to the assigned (non-working) phone number* to allow you to verify that it's YOU to connect to your account with the provider! Nobody can call or text you on the phone number assigned to your iPad. Due to my recent experiences with spam, and the increases I decided to use this iPad only with brand new encrypted email addresses and to use it for some of my most private or sensitive information that I'd like to keep secure. I created all new emails, all new APPLE ID, new everything with the focus on higher security. I love this new tablet, but because of my focus on higher security I didn't move information from my old tablet to the new one in the wonderful and easy way you can with Apple devices. I'm doing it manually. That part takes time. It does seem very clear that I can use this iPad Air as a laptop, along with buying the keyboard, case and pen. It's really a DELIGHT and very much smaller and lighter weight than my Macbook Pro (which is very old). I needed to upgrade in 2020... but I hesitated back in 2020 in buying any new devices because of the change APPLE made in leaving INTEL behind and making their own chips. I like to give brand new technology a bit of time for the kinks to work out. The M1 chip in the iPad lives up to the hype I'm reading about! One of my friends upgraded to the iPad Pro. The size and performance of these items are so similar! It's your call, which you prefer but the PRO version used the M2 chip - which is not yet available for the latest iPad Air.
Sanjay Posted
The main reason we pay for total tech is to get the two years of protection. We really appreciate the ease of use of the system. As well as the peace of mind that the coverage provides our devices. If you are somebody who buys a lot of equipment for an office or the home, this would be a no-brainer to get.
MiguelS Posted
Super worth it, I like having a list of everything I've bought and having it all covered over one umbrella. The other benefits associated like pc care is awesome
If my product goes out or stops working, Best Buy takes care of me and I’ll have a new one in no time
JayB Posted
He only takes one time taking advantage of their protection plans, and it already pays for itself and then some!
Nico Posted
It works perfectly for me but i can see where it wouldn't be everyone's ideal choice. You have to have it lined up with a mount to get it to stick right. It does stick out from the case a little but after a while I got use to it. I do wish it could go under the case but there's no way. All considered I would much rather purchase a magnetic case but it definitely does what I need,
2santos3 Posted
Best buy has never disappointed me with their service or protection plans... they pretty much do what they say they will do wich is refreshing.
ShieldTV Posted
Considering i use my phone all the time its good to know that if something were to fail that best buy would have my back
arefus Posted
this is quite useful. Challenge if there is one is lack of USB-C power. Using Apple printed wallet attached limitscharging. Overall good value. Keeping mine.
MarkS Posted
It’s great to know that your purchase is protected for 24 months.
BrownYumYum Posted
Works great no issues, charges as stated and comes with everytbjnf and was easy to set up.
great to.have monthly protection for 2 years as long as you have total tech support
Great Posted
I love my smart watch but I was upset that the band was tight on my wrist but over all I love it
Bloke Posted
This Monthly Best Buy Protection plan reminds me—carefully and respectfully—of the lesson learned from the tragedy of the Russian Kursk submarine: when something critical goes wrong unexpectedly, preparation matters. The Kursk disaster became a stark symbol of how quickly small failures can become major crises when there isn’t enough backup, response capability, or contingency planning. That’s why this protection plan feels genuinely valuable. For a modest monthly cost, it adds a layer of readiness for the devices we depend on every day. If accidental damage happens, a battery fails, pixels go bad, or wear and tear catches up with your product, there’s already a response plan in place instead of panic after the fact. Best Buy lists claim support through stores or customer service, which makes the process more accessible when problems arise. So while nothing truly compares to a human tragedy, the broader principle does: systems fail, accidents happen, and having protection in place before the emergency begins is almost always the smarter move. This plan delivers exactly that kind of practical foresight.
Doyson Posted
The Total Tech Membership has been worth every penny. It takes all the stress out of worrying about devices... setup, support, protection, and even returns feel effortless. Any time I’ve needed help, the service has been fast, friendly, and actually useful. It’s great knowing I can walk into any Best Buy or hop online and get priority support without jumping through hoops. The protection plan alone pays for itself, and the discounts on services and installs are a huge bonus. Total Tech makes the whole experience smoother and more convenient and give me peace of mind. This membership is an easy recommendation. I’m extremely happy with it.
ShitijB Posted
I’ve been shopping at Best Buy for years, and their customer service never lets me down. Last month I had an issue with a recent purchase and they fixed it quick and easy with a smile. Prices are solid, the store is always clean, and the employees actually know their stuff. Whether I’m grabbing a new game or tech, I always feel taken care of. Highly recommend shopping here! — Happy local and online customer
StephanieSR Posted
Best Buy Protection is great, worth any price differential and makes membership in My Best Buy Total extremly affordable. Electronics to Appilances the reason we shop with Best Buy. Communication and ability to get in person, or phone support is very efficient and easy.
invisiableshield Posted
Best Buy is a world class company that offers a buyers protection program that I have used. The responsiveness from Best Buy to any product issue is exceptional. Highly recommend Best Buy Protection for all appliances and tech
Vlynnrn Posted
The Best Buy Protection program was really good in the beginning. Like everything else it changes and you get less for the same price.
SiamakH Posted
It is worth the cost. No hassle, no headache to get items repaired or replaced