Currys is partnering with Microsoft to be a retail repair provider for Surface devices – and that could be a big win for consumers

British technology retailer Currys has announced that it is now the first retail repair provider (ASP or Authorized Service Partner) of Microsoft’s Surface devices in the UK.

This means that if you’ve purchased a Surface laptop – even if it’s not from Currys – you can go to a Currys store and get personal help there, and if necessary, book your malfunctioning Surface for repairs.

This is a very useful move because it gives Surface buyers an alternative to the only option that previously existed, which was to contact Microsoft directly for help and advice on what to do if they experience problems with their device.

Currys will be able to directly replace your Surface device, which is still under warranty, if it has somehow become completely damaged, and a variety of repairs can be carried out. This includes replacing the Duff display or thermal module, Surface Connect ports or wobbly kickstand, and other key components.

Currys has a small army of technicians of around 1,200 in its repair laboratory in Newark, Nottinghamshire, who handle these repairs.

Currys notes: “This partnership is part of Microsoft’s commitment to reducing electronic waste and carbon footprint by increasing device repairability and extending device life. “Microsoft believes that by working with Currys, it can better help customers achieve their goals through technology while protecting the environment.”

Surface Pro 9 on a desk with the screen turned on and Windows 11 displayed

(Image source: Future)

Analysis: Real improvement – but there is a blot on the horizon

This is a good move for UK consumers as it provides more support options for a problematic Surface device and any subsequent repairs needed. From that standpoint, it’s a welcome initiative, as is Microsoft’s overall efforts to increase repairability of Surface devices recently.

In fact, Microsoft has recently made some very significant improvements in fixability rates (which, if we go back to the last decade, have been, quite frankly, terrible).

All of this is commendable, although there is still some work to be done and a noteworthy elephant in the sustainability room. This would be the end of life date for Windows 10, when support ends later in 2025 – and how this could mean an ecological disaster that could happen as old computers that cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 at all, they could potentially end up in a landfill by Skip Full.