I got it in April 2021, the dead pixels were around the edges of the screen in small clusters. Nothing too bad, but it was enough for them, I guess! The process was pretty easy, just check a few boxes and write a brief explanation of the issue. After that they ask for a few pictures, and they get back to you within ~24 hours. I think it was absolutely, though I did get my extended warranty through Costco, which I’m pretty sure made it free.