Dish Looking To Reel in More Subscribers Via Smartphone Repair Service

Dish Network extended its Smart Home Services to smartphones, leveraging its nationwide network of technicians who install satellite and surround-sound systems and wireless networks, it said Tuesday. The launch of a smartphone service is the next step in a progression of its service business that began last year when Dish rolled out home entertainment installation through Amazon’s Home Services marketplace, a Dish spokeswoman told us. The smartphone repair service is available to all consumers and gives Dish a lead on potential satellite TV customers who aren’t currently its subscribers. “Now that you'll have a working phone make sure to take full advantage of it by signing up for DISH,” it says in an advertisement on its website for Dish DVR service. "Not only can we repair phones, but we can also set up your TV, install your surround sound system or set up a home WiFi Network." The smartphone service sends a technician to consumers’ locations to repair cracked screens and replace batteries on Apple’s iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, 6 and 6 Plus. Dish will extend the service to more devices and smartphone accessories in coming months, it said. “We come to you -- whether you’re at the office, the gym or even the coffee shop,” said John Swieringa, Dish executive vice president-operations. Appointments are available seven days a week including same-day and next-day scheduling, and Dish guarantees repair work with a 60-day warranty. Customers reserve a service slot with a $35 driver fee (there is no option to go to a service location). Sample service rates are $75 for an iPhone 5 battery replacement, $185 for an iPhone 6 Plus screen repair and $225 for iPhone 6 Plus screen and battery replacement. Repairs generally take 30-45 minutes, said the service’s FAQ section. Customers can check the name, photo and location of their Dish technician using the company’s My Tech online appointment tool.