Smartphones seem to be a significant added burden on Greek households’ budget, as shown in a research report by Square Trade, a warranty service provider in San Francisco. According to “Greek Reporter”, figures show that Greeks have spent over 700 million euros in the last seven years to repair or replace their damaged smartphones. 40% of Greek smartphone-owners had experienced a cellular breakdown or total destruction during the last two years alone. Other notable findings indicate that, 57% of accidental damage occurs at home, 15% of owners forgot their phone on the car roof, while owners with pets are 47% more likely to have a damaged smartphone. 30% of the owners of damaged smartphones are under 45 years old and owners of iPhones are 23% more likely to damage their smartphone. The average Greek smartphone owner has spent 243 euros over the last seven years to fix damaged cell phones, says Kevin Gillan, managing director for SquareTrade in Europe. This is the second highest rate in Europe.
SquareTrade’s research report is the only one of its kind to target Greek market data.