In an innovative move aimed at improving customer satisfaction and device longevity, Megafon and Yota have introduced a specialized cleaning service for smartphones and other electronic devices. This initiative, which first launched in September 2024, has quickly garnered attention and demand that exceeded initial expectations.
The pilot program started with 60 retail outlets across key regions, including Moscow, the Moscow region, St. Petersburg, the Leningrad region, Yekaterinburg, and the Sverdlovsk region. Offering a thorough cleaning service, the initiative encompasses not only the visible surfaces of devices but also hard-to-reach areas such as speakers and ports. Customers can expect an in-depth service that begins with an inspection of their gadget under a microscope, highlighting even the most stubborn dirt that may not be easily visible to the naked eye.
Following the inspection, hygiene specialists proceed with cleaning the device using specialized tools and cleaning agents. Antibacterial treatment further enhances the service, as every device surface is meticulously wiped down. The cleaning process concludes with the gadget being placed in an ultraviolet chamber for a minute to effectively eliminate any remaining bacteria. This dual approach of mechanical and antibacterial cleaning ensures that devices are both aesthetically pleasing and in excellent functional condition.
David Borzilov, the Director of Sales at Megafon, pointed out the relevance of this service in today’s tech landscape. "In recent years, the average ownership time for smartphones has increased, and now it can reach five years. Therefore, in our opinion, the service is more than relevant. Gadget owners need to clean them not only to maintain the visual aesthetics of the device but also to keep it in working condition – for example, clogging of the speakers often leads to degraded sound quality," he explained.
This service’s introduction comes at a time of heightened sensitivity towards gadget cleanliness, particularly as many consumers have become more conscious of the health implications associated with shared devices. Over a span of four months, from September to December 2024, Megafon documented a remarkable 63% increase in service requests per point of sale. This statistic underscores a growing recognition among consumers regarding the importance of device maintenance.
Encouraged by the initial success, Megafon is already eyeing expansion of the cleaning service to new regions across Russia. The rollout is set to continue in large regional markets that demonstrate high traffic in Megafon salons. The strategy suggests that the demand for such a service is not merely a fleeting trend but rather a growing necessity among smartphone users who wish to extend the lifespan of their devices.
Alongside smartphones, the cleaning service also applies to other equipment, including earbuds and smaller portable devices, further broadening its appeal to a diverse customer base. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it becomes increasingly clear that maintaining device hygiene will play a crucial role in user experience and satisfaction.
Through this initiative, Megafon and Yota are not only addressing immediate consumer needs but also paving the way for a future where gadget maintenance becomes a norm rather than an afterthought. As they prepare to take this service nationwide, the operators reinforce their commitment to providing quality support, enhancing the longevity of devices, and ensuring customer satisfaction across the board.
