The Geek Squad Can Turn On Your E-Reader for just $29.99

I ran across this Geek Squad ad, and I was amazed at their new e-reader service. For the low price of $30, they will turn your device on for you. It looks like a winner of a business plan to me. Here's the ad-

So in case you aren't able to make out the print on it, it says that the Geek Squad will, for $29.99, save you time by handling the initial setup. The service even includes-

• Performing the initial configuration of the device

• Downloading the latest firmware and updating your device

• Making sure that the device is working and can connect to a wireless network

• Provide you with tips for what to expect when you take the device home

Or, you could turn it on yourself and thumb through the Quick Setup Guide. It is hard to believe that there are that many customers that have e-readers, who also don't know how to turn on the power and follow the prompts. If this is the case, than perhaps the model they are buying is too complex for them and they need something a little lower tech, like a book. This is a single use device, not even as complicated as a cell phone. In fact, the Amazon video about how to setup the Kindle 2 spent 45 seconds talking about how to open the box, then they explain how to turn the power on (there is a button marked power) and the user guide automatically displays on the device. Using the arrow keys, you can make your selections and it walks you through everything you need to know in order to use the device and even shop from the Amazon store. Amazon made it so easy that the Kindle is already registered to your Amazon account before it is shipped.

I realize that there are people who aren't that computer savvy and e-readers appeal to an audience that isn't always high tech, but I think that Best Buy and the Geek Squad could do better than this. Maybe they could include the “turn on service” with the purchase of the extended warranty. It seems to me that with so many retailers fighting for customers in this economy, adding value to the Geek Squad protection would only serve to help Best Buy. I can't believe that this setup service is time or labor intensive.

Even still, I am a fan of Best Buy and I think that for many people the Geek Squad service is worth the investment. At the least, it gives my relatives someone, other than me, that they can ask to fix their computer issues.

By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a freelance writer and regular contributor to several websites and other publications, a volunteer, a full time mom and an active job seeker.