It's widely known that Apple products are highly popular and come with a premium price tag. That's why pre-owned Apple phones are gaining popularity, offering the same quality at a more affordable price. Although Apple doesn’t sell refurbished products officially in India, you can snag them at online and offline stores.
With that said, you need to check a few important things before you finalise your purchase as a buyer. Here are some things to keep in mind
Wear and Tear
If the iPhone you're considering is a few years old, it may have experienced wear and tear, especially if it wasn't well-maintained by the previous owner. Request the seller to provide photos of the device from all angles, including close-up shots if feasible. This allows you to inspect for significant scratches, dents, discoloration, and marks. Ensure there are no scratches on the camera lens that could affect picture quality and verify that wireless charging functionality is still operational.
Proof of Purchase
Request the seller to furnish either a digital or physical copy of the original receipt. The receipt is crucial as it provides insights into two key aspects: the previous ownership details and the warranty status. Upon receiving the iPhone receipt, verify if the seller's name or identification matches the recipient and the purchase date.
This step helps determine if the seller was the original owner and whether the iPhone is still covered by warranty. If the seller is unable to provide a receipt, you'll need to decide whether you are comfortable proceeding without the ability to trace ownership history. Although some phones can still be in good condition after changing hands multiple times, the risks associated with security and potential misuse are significantly higher without proper ownership verification.
IMEI Number
Verify if the device specifications match with the official receipt by requesting the seller to access the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. They can find this number by navigating to Settings > General > About on the iPhone. Alternatively, they can retrieve the IMEI number by dialling *#06# on the phone keypad. Once obtained, compare the IMEI number with the proof of purchase provided by the seller. Use IMEI.info to cross-check details such as mobile network, country, warranty status, system version, and other specifications. Additionally, you can locate the IMEI number on the original packaging box.
Serial Number
In addition to the IMEI number, Apple assigns serial numbers to all its devices for warranty validation. To locate the iPhone's serial number, request the seller to navigate to Settings > General > About.
Using the serial number, you can gather information about when and where the iPhone was manufactured. This allows you to verify the device specifications provided by the vendor and check the service and support coverage on Apple's coverage page.
Parts Authenticity
When verifying authenticity, inquire with the seller about any prior repairs on the device and whether these were conducted by an Apple-authorised service provider. Repairs done at unauthorised centres can lead to the installation of non-authentic parts. Therefore, it's important to confirm whether the iPhone contains any counterfeit components.
Substandard parts, like the display, not only impact the visual quality of the iPhone's display but can also affect battery life, speed, and backlight functionality. While it's preferable to inspect this in person, as an online buyer, you can still ask the seller pertinent questions regarding the device's repair history.
Risks of buying a second-hand iPhone
IMEI Number Consistency: The IMEI number remains unchanged regardless of ownership. This means that if the device was involved in any unlawful activities by previous owners, you may be contacted by authorities to establish your innocence.
Beware of Counterfeit Parts: Counterfeit electronic devices are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. Some second-hand electronics are priced lower because they contain non-original parts. While these devices may initially function properly, they may not perform optimally over their intended lifespan.
Hidden Damage and Quality Concerns: Not all damage is immediately visible, especially online. Take the time to read seller reviews and investigate reviewer profiles to ensure their legitimacy before making a purchase. This can help you make a more informed decision about the condition of the device and the reliability of the seller.
Other things to keep in mind
Inspect In Person: Whenever possible, opt for purchasing second-hand iPhones that you have seen and tested in person. This reduces the risk of encountering surprises or shipping-related damages.
Exercise Caution with Online Purchases: If you decide to buy online, be extra cautious. Apple products can last for years, but not all sellers take good care of their devices. Ensure you buy from reputable sources and thoroughly check seller reviews to gauge their credibility. This can help you avoid potential scams or misrepresented products.
Also read: Apple takes a significant bite of the ‘made in India’ push
What is Lockdown mode on iPhone and how it may keep you safe from ‘mercenary spyware’ attacks
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