Apple is one of the leading sellers of smartphones in the world. The iPhone series has gained popularity in the market for impressive features such as excellent cameras, robust security systems, and luxurious look and design. Despite being one of the top-selling phones, these phones are relatively pricey, and not everyone can get one. For this reason, some people opt to get a used version, preferably a refurbished model. Second-hand models or refurbished iPhones come at a reduced price while still offering the amazing features that come with owning an iPhone.
Buying a refurbished or pre-used iPhone model definitely saves you some cash. However, there are a few secrets you need to uncover about buying a used iPhone. These include;
Proof of purchase
Before committing to the sale, it is best to ask the vendor to provide you with a hard copy of the original receipt. This document will give you information about the previous owner and the warranty status of the phone. You need to compare and contrast the seller’s ID, name, and purchase date with that on the receipt to ensure it is a match. If the seller doesn’t provide you with a valid receipt, it is up to you to decide you are comfortable buying a used phone without tracing its previous ownership.
IMEI Number
The International Mobile Equipment Identity, popularly known as IMEI, can help check if the specification on the receipt match those you’re being sold on. You can do this by asking them to go to settings-General-About. You can as well ask them to dial *#06# to retrieve the unique IMEI number. Once the IMEI number is displayed, you can compare it against the one provided on the purchase of proof given by the seller. This number can also come in handy when you need to check for the device’s network, warranty, country, system version, and other specifications.
Serial Number
Apple has gone a notch higher to include the phone’s serial number when validating its warranty. This means you have to check the phone’s serial number by selecting on Settings-General-About. A serial number can also come in handy when looking to find out details such as where and when the phone was made. In addition, using Apple’s website, you can verify the specs given by the seller and the service and support coverage.
Part Authenticity
This is where the seller or vendor needs to be utterly honest with you. However, to check for authenticity, start by asking if any repairs were done on the device and if any of those repairs were done by a certified Apple service provider. Repairs done in unauthorized centers may mean some of the parts used may not be authentic. The uses of low-quality components affect the visual experience of the iPhone and impact the phone’s backlights, speeds, and battery life. You can visit uptradeit.com to find out more about part authentication.
Touch Test
Nothing is as disappointing as spending your money on a device that starts to fail upon delivery. First, you need to ensure both physical buttons and screen are working properly. You can check this through a live video where you ask the seller to press each physical key while looking at the phone’s response to every touch. After that, ask them to display some of the common gestures such as zoom, swipe, and tap to check if the screen is operating optimally.
Keep in mind that most used iPhones have problems with their touch ID or Home buttons. Therefore, you need to ask the vendor to demonstrate each of these functions while paying close attention to the iPhone’s responsiveness.
Camera, Microphone and Speaker Test
The most common indicators for water-damaged iPhones include broken speakers and damaged speakers. To ensure the iPhone’s speaker is in good condition, have the vendor put the phone on max volume. After that, call or text the phone to listen for any static sound. You can also ask the vendor to put the vibration mode on and listen to the vibration to ensure it’s operating perfectly.
For the camera, ask the seller to take photos of themselves using front and back cameras and show you the photo. If the images are clear and of good quality, then the camera is still operational.
Port Checks
The iPhone has several opening ports, making it susceptible to dust and water damage, especially for older models. To check if the ports are functioning properly, ask the vendor to test the ports by charging using a cord. You can also check the headphone jug by plugging in the speakers.
Battery Test
The most common problem with used smartphones is the battery. In most cases, these are usually the most damaged components. Having a poor battery can cause bad charging practices or normal usage. To ensure the phone’s battery status, ask the seller to select on Settings-Battery-Battery health. Keep in mind that all rechargeable batteries have a limited lifespan. So when buying a pre-owned phone, you need to make peace with the battery life you get.
According to Apple, most of their iPhones can retain up to 80% of their battery at completing 500 charge cycles. Buying a pre-owned iPhone with less than 80% can impact negatively on the phone’s performance and, in most cases, may need replacement. If the iPhone’s warranty is still active, you can choose to replace the defective batteries for free. For more information on other iPhones, you can visit uptradeit.com for details concerning battery repair services for iPhones with expired warranties.
There is alt of risks that come with buying a pre-owned iPhone, especially when buying from an authorized vendor. You need to take extra caution when buying from a seller. Most Apple products are designed to serve the customers for ages; however, these phones can get damaged without proper care. When you decide to go for a second-hand iPhone, it is advisable to for a certified refurbished model from an authorized dealer or directly from Apple. This way, you can get an almost new device with a renewed Apple Warranty.
