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Manufacturers are no longer your only option for tech support: You can often get free assistance from the place where you bought your electronics device. Here's a look at some of the support options for a variety of retailers. All three of these retailers were Recommended in our most recent reader survey (see electronics-store Ratings, available to subscribers, for details).
Apple. Whether you buy an Apple product online or from one of the company's retail stores, you get free tech support for 90 days via a toll-free number or at the Genius Bar in an Apple retail store. You make a reservation for the Genius Bar online, then just show up at your appointed time. In addition, when you buy an Apple product in the store, you get Personal Setup, which includes setting up e-mail and loading any purchased software on a Mac, and transferring calendar and contacts on an iPhone. Apple also offers free in-store workshops for new owners.
Costco. This warehouse-club store offers members free technical support for a range of electronics equipment, including TVs, computers, cameras, and home-theater systems, whether you purchase the product online or in-store. By calling the toll-free support number (866-861-0450), you can get answers to set-up and use questions and troubleshooting assistance. The support is available for the life of the product and as long as you remain a Costco member.
Crutchfield. Buyers get free tech support for a product's life with every purchase. If you bought a product elsewhere, you can purchase 90 days of tech support for $30 and lifetime tech support for $100. Tech support includes help with installation, setup, troubleshooting, and everyday use. Phone support is toll-free (a private phone number is included with your invoice, or call 1-800-388-2911) and available seven days a week. An online FAQ is also available.
Consumer Reports hasn't tested these free tech-support services, but they could give consumers one more good reason to shop at these Recommended retailers.
—Nancy Feldman
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