Best Buy's Geek Squad Encourages Innovation Early with 6th Annual Geek Squad Summer Academy(TM) Program Launching June 10

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Best Buy's Geek Squad Encourages Innovation Early with 6th Annual Geek Squad Summer Academy(TM) Program Launching June 10

Forty community-based camps to teach youth tech basics in a fun and inspirational way; five camps tailored for military bases as part of national Joining Forces initiative MINNEAPOLIS - (June 6, 2012) - Best Buy's Geek Squad today announced the 6th Annual Geek Squad Summer Academy(TM) program, an unparalleled community-supported tech immersion experience that provides young people the tech know-how to spark creativity and innovation. Introduced in 2007, this technology boot camp has grown from a one-day, one-city 300-student camp to a nationwide program that will reach nearly 10,000 students in more than 20 states this summer. The Geek Squad Summer Academy program, a contributor to the White House Joining Forces initiative, also will support tech education for military family members by hosting five customized camps on select military bases across the U.S. "The special expertise of our Geek Squad Agents makes them uniquely qualified to help kids learn and love technology," said George Sherman, senior vice president of Best Buy Services. "We look forward to another successful year of Geek Squad Summer Academy and are excited to help foster our Junior Agents' desire to use technology as a tool to help achieve the dream of becoming whatever you want to be." Providing young people access to technology and inspiring their creativity are key priorities for Best Buy, and the Geek Squad Summer Academy program is vital to achieving this goal. Each year, Geek Squad Agents volunteer their time to work alongside young people as they explore the ins and outs of their favorite gadgets. Geek Squad partners with non-profit organizations - such as The Girl Scouts of America and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, among others - to demystify technology for young people and ignite their passion with a curriculum that focuses on fun and inspiration. Responding to greater demand from communities wanting to host sessions, this year the Geek Squad Summer Academy program will visit more locations than ever before and provide the most comprehensive curriculum to date. "Geek Squad Summer Academy is a truly one-of-a-kind experience for young people," said Moira Hardek, founder and senior manager of Geek Squad Summer Academy. "Not only do we bring know-how to kids in their own communities, but we try to nurture them to be more creative and inspire them to innovate. Delivering this hands-on experience is what makes the program memorable for the kids and so very rewarding for those of us with Geek Squad who are fortunate to participate." Geek Squad Summer Academy's 2012 season will kick-off on June 10 in Bladensburg, Md. and subsequently visit 40 cities from coast to coast, ending in late August. The five unique armed forces-focused Geek Squad Summer Academy program sessions will be held on military bases, including Fort Meade in Maryland. For a complete schedule of Geek Squad Summer Academy 2012 dates, locations, enrollment information and more, visithttp://geeksquadacademy.com/summeracademy/. About Geek Squad: If your deepest desire is make the most of your technology so you can get more from your life, Geek Squad is there for you:  24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. For help with all your technology needs, call 1.800.GEEK SQUAD to set up an onsite consultation. Access Geek Squad Agents remotely or find a location near you at www.geeksquad.com, or visit the Geek Squad Precinct at any Best Buy to speak with an Agent directly. About Best Buy Co., Inc. Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE: BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees - 167,000 strong - are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For information about Best Buy, visit www.bby.com and to shop at Best Buy, visit www.bestbuy.com.

Geek Squad® Signs Four Partners To Recently Launched Partner Program

Geek Squad® Signs Four Partners To Recently Launched Partner Program

RICHFIELD, Minn., May 23, 2012 - Geek Squad®, Best Buy's 24-hour tech support task force, has added four new partners to its Partner Program Network. Geek Squad's newly launched Partner Program works with third-party sellers to provide services for their own customers. New partners include Network Solutions Provider, Carrier Access, Inc., Access Media 3, and MACH 4. "We are pleased to welcome these partners to our growing network," said Brian Hutto, vice president of Best Buy Services. "Each brings years of industry leading expertise and customer services to clients throughout the United States. By teaming up with these well-established partners, we're able to continue to expand our footprint in to the SMB space and help provide enterprise-level services at price points that SMB's can afford." As part of the agreement, the partners will provide Geek Squad services for their own customers, including Geek Squad Office Support which features Geek Squad Agents available for unlimited 24/7 support via phone, online chat, remote, and, with an option to include on-site support. In addition, they will sell PC, mobile, networking and infrastructure support services. Service plans are designed to help customers with diagnostics and repair, client and server administration, and network integration, including network, firewall, VPN, and server support as well as data backup and transfers. "The depth and breadth of coverage provided by the Partner Program enables MACH 4 partners in 50 states to sell an outstanding product with no geographical limitations," said Brian Miller, chief executive officer at MACH 4. "MACH 4's mission is to provide reliable service and sound advice and Geek Squad emulates that mission. We look forward to offering our clients the best value and services available and are proud to bring Geek Squad to our clients."          "Coupling Access Media 3's broadband, television and voice services with Geek Squad's Partner Program mean happier customers with better performing networks and devices. It's a chance for us to support our customers with real expertise to meet individual needs," said Eric Welles, senior vice president of Business Development at Access Media 3. "It's like having a concierge on call for a resident's network and connected devices." "Carrier Access' partnership with Geek Squad leverages our 7/24/365 managed communications services practice and Geek Squad's national reach, straight forward offering, and industry recognized brand," said Chad Stanford, director of Business Development for Carrier Access. "From the desktop application support to data center connectivity, Carrier Access is committed to delivering industry leading IT solutions through our strategic alliances." "Our partnership with Geek Squad helps Network Solutions Provider keep its customer promise to give our clients the best support they can get - no matter of size," added Phillip Walker, chief executive officer at Network Solutions Provider. "Working with Geek Squad will help our clients reduce customer downtime, save money and help create a better customer experience."  For more information about Geek Squad's Partner Program, visit http://partnerprogram.geeksquad.com/ or call 1-877-393-2056. About Geek Squad Since its expansion nationally in 2004, Geek Squad has grown to nearly 20,000 technicians who support install and repair for consumers and small businesses alike, including computing, home theater, auto electronics, mobile devices and appliances. Geek Squad technicians are available at Precincts in all Best Buy U.S. stores, through house calls and via online chat, remote support or over-the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. About Best Buy Co., Inc. Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees - 180,000 strong - are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For additional information about Best Buy, visit http://www.investors.bestbuy.com/.

Best Buy's Geek Squad® And AARP Announce Customized Program To Help AARP Members Make The Most Of Their Technology

Best Buy's Geek Squad® And AARP Announce Customized Program To Help AARP Members Make The Most Of Their Technology

Geek Squad Tech Support & Guidance for AARP Members Service Provides Preferred, Unlimited Access to Geek Squad Agents By-Phone, Online and In-Store RICHFIELD, Minn., April 25, 2012 - Geek Squad, Best Buy's 24-hour tech support task force, and AARP today announced the launch of a new program that provides millions of AARP members nationwide access to advice and special discounts on Geek Squad services.  Called Geek Squad Tech Support & Guidance for AARP Members, the comprehensive subscription program supports AARP members with their personal technology through access to Geek Squad Agents by phone, online and in-store, as well as discounts on in-home service calls. "AARP members tell us they appreciate the advantages that today's technology brings to their lives - from staying connected with family and friends to improving their very health and well-being," said Angela Jones, senior vice president for AARP Services, Inc., AARP's wholly owned for-profit subsidiary. "This new benefit will give AARP members peace of mind in knowing that they can get help with their computers, tablets and other devices when and where they want it." Geek Squad's own customer demographics attest to the growing interest in unlimited access to tech support from people who are 50 and older.  For example, more than one-third of subscribers to the Geek Squad Tech Support service for computers and tablets are between the ages of 55 and 64.  "The benefits of technology are well known and highly desirable to the 50+," said George Sherman, senior vice president of Best Buy Services.  "What AARP members see in Geek Squad is an adviser who can help them choose the devices that are right for them, and make the most of their gear for as long as they have it." Geek Squad Tech Support & Guidance for AARP Members has been custom designed to address the needs of AARP members.  Starting at $169.99 for a one-year subscription, AARP members enjoy unlimited access to Geek Squad Agents online, in-store and by phone.*  Key benefits of the program include: ·         A personal shopper program tailored to AARP members through a dedicated 1-800 phone line, exclusive email access and seamless order process, supported by a captive team of Geek Squad Agents who have completed specialized training to support AARP members specifically. ·         Set-up/installation of computers, tablets and peripherals through access to Geek Squad Agents in-store and online. ·         Diagnostics, troubleshooting and repair services in-store and online for computers and computer peripherals. ·         Special discounts on additional Geek Squad services, including 15 percent off all in-home and in-store services, and 25 percent off all online services.  ·         Free recycling and disposal of CE products in 12 categories, regardless of where or when the item was originally purchased. ·         Training via phone and online on topics members request, including iPod/MP3 players, social media, digital media, digital cameras, email and Internet safety. AARP members may obtain more information about the program by calling 1-800-921-0907 or visiting aarp.geeksquad.com. About Geek Squad Since its expansion nationally in 2004, Geek Squad has grown to nearly 20,000 technicians who support install and repair for consumers and small businesses alike, including computing, home theater, auto electronics, mobile devices and appliances. Geek Squad technicians are available at Precincts in all Best Buy U.S. stores, through house calls and via online chat, remote support or over-the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. About Best Buy Co., Inc. Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees - 167,000 strong - are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For additional information about Best Buy, visit http://www.investors.bestbuy.com/. About AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with nearly 35 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's millions of members and Americans 50+; AARP VIVA, our bilingual multimedia platform for Hispanic members; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. About AARP Services, Inc.  AARP Services, Inc., founded in 1999, is a wholly-owned taxable subsidiary of AARP. AARP Services manages the provider relationships for and performs quality control oversight of the wide range of products and services that carry the AARP name and are made available by independent providers as benefits to AARP's millions of members. The provider offers currently span health products, financial products, travel and leisure products, and life event services. Specific products include Medicare supplemental insurance; credit cards, auto and home, mobile home and motorcycle insurance, life insurance and annuities; member discounts on rental cars, cruises, vacation packages and lodging; special offers on technology and gifts; pharmacy services; legal services; and long term care insurance. AARP Services also engages in new product development activities for AARP and provides certain consulting services to outside companies. *Tech Support & Guidance for AARP Members pricing varies by term (one, two or three years) and is discounted further when subscriptions are purchased along with a tablet or a computer from Best Buy.  For example, with a hardware purchase, a one year subscription is $99.99 - and $169.99 without a computer or tablet purchase.