The Apple iPhone is not only a technological marvel, but also a status symbol. But as often happens, buyers, trying to save money, buy refurbished devices. It is important to understand that a refurbished iPhone is not always a fake or a low-quality item, but there are several signs that will help distinguish a refurbished phone from the original. In this article, we will tell you how to distinguish an original and refurbished iPhone to avoid unpleasant situations.
1. Condition of the body and signs of repair
Original iPhone
When you buy a new iPhone, the case always looks flawless. There are no scratches, dents or other damage, and its appearance meets all Apple standards. The back panel is perfectly flat, and no components protrude.
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices, as a rule, cannot boast the same impeccable appearance. Although such phones may look almost like new, the case may have traces of previous repairs: small scratches, dents, or traces of removing and installing the screen. Pay attention to the joints between the case and the screen: if they are uneven or there are gaps, this may be a sign of a refurbished device.
2. Serial number and IMEI
Original iPhone
Each Apple device has a unique serial number And IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), which allows you to identify it as an original product. To check this data, you can go to the iPhone settings, in the "General" > "About this device".
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices may have a changed serial number or IMEI. You can check this number through the official Apple website or services for checking the authenticity of the device to make sure it matches the declared information.
There is also a simple way to check IMEI:
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Type on your phone keypad:
*#06#- This code will display the unique IMEI number of your device. -
Compare it with the information on the packaging or receipt if the device was purchased new. If the data does not match, this is a cause for concern.
3. Checking via device settings
Original iPhone
The original device will not have any restore-related notes in the settings. You will see all the original settings, and the Warranty section will indicate that the device is under warranty from Apple (if it is new).
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices purchased from unofficial sources may state that the device has been recovery. In the settings, you can see that the device has a limited or no warranty period. Moreover, the Apple service may indicate that the phone was previously repaired.
4. Packaging and delivery set
Original iPhone
If the iPhone is new, its packaging will be perfectly closed, with factory seals and no signs of opening. The device always comes with a charging cable, adapter, headphones (or other accessories, if specified in the package), as well as documentation, which is packed in an envelope.
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices may not have original packaging or may be clearly recycled. Sometimes, instead of the original box, a neutral design is used, or the packaging may be marked "refurbished". The set may also be incomplete: for example, without headphones or a charger, which is also a characteristic sign of refurbishment.
5. Screen and device details
Original iPhone
The screen on the new iPhone is always perfect: uniform brightness, high image quality and no defects such as spots, stripes or dead pixels. It fits perfectly to the case.
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices may sometimes have screens that are not of the highest quality, especially if the screen was replaced after a failure. Such screens may have a slightly dimmer image or unwanted artifacts. If the screen does not meet the quality standards of the original device, it may have been replaced.
6. Camera operation
Original iPhone
The new iPhone's camera works without interruption. Photos are clear, and video is stable and distortion-free. There should be no slowdowns, distortions, or blurriness when shooting.
Refurbished iPhone
After restoration, the camera may show signs of wear and tear. It may not work as well as in a new device. Pay attention to the quality of the photos, the stability of the autofocus, and the operation of all camera modes.
7. Software updates
Original iPhone
New iPhones receive all iOS updates from Apple automatically. These updates are uninterrupted and arrive on schedule, and your iPhone will not become bricked or slowed down by unauthorized changes.
Refurbished iPhone
Some refurbished devices, especially those that have undergone unofficial repairs, may not receive updates or may become unstable after installing them. This is because the devices may have unofficial components or firmware installed.
8. Performance issues
Original iPhone
The performance of the new iPhone is always stable. The RAM, processor, and other components work at high performance, without causing problems with applications or multitasking.
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices may experience unstable operation due to the poor quality of the replaced parts. For example, lags, slowdowns, or problems with launching applications are possible.
9. Warranty and support
Original iPhone
Your new iPhone comes with a full Apple warranty that covers the life of your device.
Refurbished iPhone
Refurbished devices often do not have a full warranty from Apple, and their warranty may be limited to the duration of the factory repair. In some cases, this warranty is provided by third-party companies.
How to avoid buying a refurbished device?
To avoid buying a refurbished iPhone, there are a few rules to follow:
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Buy devices only from official resellers and in authorized Apple stores.
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Check IMEI and the serial number of the device before purchasing.
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Look for reviews about the seller, especially if you are buying the device online or on the secondary market.
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Don't trust suspiciously low pricesIf the price of the device is significantly lower than the market price, this may be a signal that you are buying a refurbished or used phone.
Conclusion
It's not always easy to tell an original iPhone from a refurbished one, but knowing the basic signs and checking the details can help you avoid buying the wrong device. If you want to ensure you're buying a real, original device, follow the recommendations for checking the IMEI and serial number, and only buy from trusted stores.
