A brand new iPhone is an expensive device. Not everyone can afford it. However, there is a way to save money by taking a refurbished iphone. But is it unsafe and does it make sense to make such purchases?
A refurbished iPhone is a second-hand device. The owner handed it over due to minor malfunctions or under the trade-in program. The iPhone was repaired, rebuilt into a new case at an Apple-owned factory.
Recovery process
After the update, the old device is thoroughly checked, tested, packed in a new box and sent to Aliexpress for sale at a significantly reduced price. Ideally, the iPhone is refurbished to the highest standard.
The device receives a one-year warranty. There are no differences in this regard between the device and the new iPhones. The returned smartphone is sent to the factory.
Experts find out what is the cause of the breakdown, whether there are any consequences. After the diagnosis, the repair begins. All damaged parts will be replaced with new ones.
This is followed by a second check. The smartphone is tested for aptitude using traditional tests for "apple" devices. When restoring, both defective parts and a completely new battery with a display are changed.
At least, Apple employees assure users of this. However, judging by the reviews, the masters do not always do this.
After replacing and checking the insides, the case is changed. The shabby old one is disposed of, and the resurrected iphone gets a new "shirt" Finally, the device gets a new serial number.
After the connection with the old one is broken, the device is sent to the box along with headphones, a charger, a USB cable, stickers and other accessories.
The reassembled iPhone receives the status of a refurbished one, the cost for it is significantly reduced. And as a bonus, there is a one-year warranty. Within two weeks, the purchased device can be returned due to the fact that the buyer changes his mind. If there is a defect, the company takes the device under warranty.
Underwater rocks
The iPhones that have been in use for some time and returned by the former owners are being repaired and reassembled under the restoration program. Those devices that have been in operation for a very long time or have serious defects are not restored. They are completely dismantled.
Despite such serious statements, rumors about the restored devices are quite contradictory. According to one of them, the company indiscriminately sends back all the iPhones handed over to Apple.
There is nothing critical in replacing a defective element, but after all, not every device marked "like new" is returned to the manufacturer in excellent condition. Old iPhones are rented out by the former owners under the trade-in program. But it does not officially work in the CIS countries. This is already serious.
Masters test devices after repair. However, judging by the number of marriages, it is not always possible to track all the "deceased" iPhones.
Meanwhile, it is easy to distinguish new from "like new": the restored versions get a number starting with FG and ending with RFB. It is also displayed on the device in the "About device" menu in the main settings of the "Settings" menu.
Craftsmen have often learned to fake such data. Therefore, smartphones purchased in questionable places should be checked more carefully. Reinsurance will only benefit. The conclusion is obvious: when buying a refurbished device, there is an opportunity to acquire a marriage.
To take or not to take devices after the resurrection - everyone decides for himself. A purchase can be compared to a lottery, where the odds of winning are increased. If one iPhone labeled "like new" has been used successfully for many years, another can be frustrating right away.
