New Poll Shows Family And Friends Maintain Tech Support Lead For 50+, But Geek Squad Is Closing The Gap

Patient family and friends remain a great choice, but Geek Squad’s recently launched service aimed at AARP® members lets family and friends relax and talk about more important things


RICHFIELD - If you’re tired of your parents hounding you for tech advice, you’re likely not alone. According to a recent Geek Squad poll of AARP members,* more than half of the nearly 700 respondents say they turn to a family member or friend first when they need tech help. Geek Squad ranked second-most preferred at nearly 17 percent, with hardware manufacturers and local tech providers ranking third- and fourth-most preferred, respectively.

“New technology is coming out faster than ever, and it can be downright daunting if you’re not familiar with what all these devices can do for you,” said Geek Squad Covert Agent Derek Meister. “We serve thousands of AARP members, and while they’re as excited about technology as anybody else, they’re worried about exposing themselves to viruses or failing to get the most out of their gear.”

Still, technology dependence appears to be on the uptick among the 50+ as both men and women say they intend to add more gadgets to their tech arsenal. For the AARP members in this poll, the most sought-after electronics going into this holiday season are tablets/e-readers (27 percent), computers (25 percent), and smart phones and TVs (both 16 percent). They indicated they typically reach out for guidance when they need troubleshooting help, pre-purchase advice or virus removal.

To address the particular needs of the 50+, Geek Squad recently introduced the Geek Squad® Tech Support & Guidance program for AARP® members. The program provides 24/7 tech help at attractive discounts so that AARP members can enjoy convenient access to Geek Squad Agents online, in-store and by phone.* Key benefits of the program include:

• A personal shopper program tailored to AARP members through a dedicated 1-800 phone line, exclusive email access and seamless order process, supported by a captive team of Geek Squad Agents who have completed specialized training to support AARP members specifically.

• Set-up/installation of computers, tablets and peripherals through access to Geek Squad Agents in-store and online.

• Diagnostics, troubleshooting and repair services in-store and online for computers and computer peripherals.

• Special discounts on additional Geek Squad services, including 15 percent off all in-home and in-store services, and 25 percent off all online services.

• Free recycling and disposal of consumer electronics products in 12 categories, regardless of where or when the item was originally purchased.

For more information about Geek Squad Tech Support and Guidance, visit http://www.geeksquad.com/aarp.



About AARP

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for Americans 50+ and the world’s largest-circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for the 50+ audience; AARP VIVA, a bilingual lifestyle multimedia platform addressing the interests and needs of Hispanic Americans; and national television and radio programming including My Generation and Inside E Street. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.


About AARP Services, Inc.

Established in 1999, AARP Services, Inc. is a wholly owned taxable subsidiary of AARP. AARP Services, Inc. manages provider relationships and performs quality control oversight of the wide range of products and services that carry the AARP name and are made available by independent providers as benefits to more than 37 million AARP members. The provider offers currently span health products, financial products, travel and leisure products, and life event services. Specific products include Medicare supplemental insurance; credit cards, auto and home, mobile home and motorcycle insurance, life insurance and annuities; member discounts on rental cars, cruises, vacation packages and lodging; special offers on technology and gifts; pharmacy services; legal services; and long term care insurance. AARP Services, Inc. also engages in new product development activities for AARP and provides certain consulting services to outside companies.


About Geek Squad

Since its expansion nationally in 2004, Geek Squad has grown to nearly 20,000 technicians who support install and repair for consumers and small businesses alike, including computing, home theater, auto electronics, mobile devices and appliances. Geek Squad technicians are available at Precincts in all Best Buy U.S. stores, through house calls and via online chat, remote support or over-the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.


About Best Buy Co., Inc.

Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees - 167,000 strong - are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For additional information about Best Buy, visit http://www.investors.bestbuy.com/.


*The Tech Advisor Poll was conducted at the Geek Squad provider booth during the three-day AARP Life@50+ National Event and Expo in New Orleans, La., which is designated for AARP members throughout the United States. Participants completed the multi-question survey on a tablet or laptop during the event.

**Geek Squad Tech Support & Guidance for AARP Members pricing varies by term (one, two or three years) and is discounted further when subscriptions are purchased along with a tablet or a computer from Best Buy. For example, with a hardware purchase, a one year subscription is $99.99 - and $169.99 without a computer or tablet purchase.