Walmart is launching a new in-store tech repair service that plans to compete with Apple’s Genius Bar and Best Buy’s Geek Squad. Walmart is partnering with True Network Solutions, a New York-based entity to supply staff and kiosks for the program. The new Walmart tech service is expected to do everything from in-home T.V. installations, smart home products, PC set-ups, tablets, WiFi to many other products and services including a 24/7 tech support plan.
Dallas News reports,
“The decision to add tech kiosks is a response to shoppers wanting more assistance in electronics, Walmart spokeswoman Anne Hatfield said. ‘We asked customers if they were interested in using a tech service at Walmart and over half said they were extremely interested.’ ”
Walmart says that they expect their basic services to be priced up to 50% lower than their competitors. Online shoppers in these pilot program sites will also have the option to set home appointments or do remote set-ups. In the physical stores, staff can help customers determine their electronic needs and also do basic fixes like screen repair and battery replacement. All in-store consultation with staff is completely free.
The article continues, “Walmart Tech Services kiosks started operating Monday in the electronics department of four local Walmart stores — in Arlington, Mesquite, and two in Garland. A fifth kiosk is open in a Springdale, Ark., Walmart, and the company plan to expand the pilot to 50 U.S. stores by mid-2021, Walmart said.”
Read the full article here.
