8 things Wikipedia Can’t Tell You About Refurbished iPhones

If you’ve ever thought about getting a refurbished iPhone, you might be swimming in a sea of information, some helpful, and some not so much.

While Wikipedia has a great overview of what refurbished means, it leaves out some juicy details that can help you make an even better decision.

So, let’s dive into the lesser-known facts about refurbished iPhones that you won’t find in all the information that Wikipedia offers.

The Refurbishing Process is More Detailed than You Think:

You might picture a refurbishing process where someone wipes the device clean and calls it a day.

When an iPhone is refurbished, it goes through an extensive inspection process. This includes replacing all the faulty components, cleaning both exterior and interior parts, and running a battery health check. All of these things make sure that everything is up to a good standard and ready to sell as almost new. Some companies even go as far as giving the phone a brand-new shell if the original one has seen better days.

In short, it’s not just a hurried effort that misses a few important details it’s a thorough job well done so that the device can be as good as it can be, without being completely new.

Warranty Can Vary Significantly:

Ahh, warranties, are the safety net for any tech purchase. One thing that surprises many people is that warranties for refurbished iPhones can range a lot depending on where you buy them.

Apple itself offers refurbished devices with a warranty that is similar to new products (usually around one year). Other sellers, for example third-party sellers, could toss in anything from 30 days to six months of coverage, or even none at all.

Because of this, it is a good idea to always check what kind of warranty comes with your refurbished device before making that purchase. It’s like getting insurance but a lot less boring.

Condition Grades:

When shopping for refurbished iPhones, you’ll often find condition grades such as like- new, very good, or fair. But, what do these mean? Well, brace yourself because not all sellers apply these terms consistently.

“Like new” might mean minimal scratches and perfect functionality for one seller. On the other hand, it could mean slight wear for another. So, to properly understand what you’re getting into, always request pictures if they aren’t provided upfront. Read reviews from previous people who have bought from the seller.

Software Is Up-to-Date, but May Require Setup:

Another common myth about refurbished devices is that they come loaded with outdated software or need more updates right out of the box. Most reputable refurbishers will install the latest iOS version before selling the phone anyway.

You shouldn’t be surprised if you still have to do some setup when you get it home. Like every new phone, restoring backups or setting up new accounts will be on your agenda too.

Trade-in Value Isn’t Always What You Expect:

Let’s say you’ve got your eye on that shiny refurbished phone but also want to trade in your old device to minimise costs – a smart move. What many people don’t realize is that trade-in values can differ greatly between stores and platforms.

Retailers often have their data algorithms going on behind the scenes to see how much they’ll give you for your old phone based on its condition and how many other people want it. So, if you’re looking to get every cent out of that old phone before diving into getting a refurbished one, shop around before committing.

Battery Life Can Be Tricky:

While you might find it ironic, not all sellers replace batteries as part of their process, even though refurbishing normally involves battery inspections. Some places will offer you a good-looking phone with less-than-great battery health. If battery performance is crucial for you (and let’s be honest, it should be), specifically ask if they guarantee battery life or offer replacement options if things start going south after purchase. Or, find a good reputable refurbished, one that can promise more than most.

Accessories Are Often Not Included:

Many sellers keep costs down by omitting accessories entirely or providing generic ones instead of Apple-branded items. It can be frustrating when you’re excited about the unboxing day only to discover there are no goodies inside.
On the plus side, the accessories are normally not too expensive to get and you will still save money when buying them separately.

The “Outdated” Feature Debate:

Lastly, and perhaps most interesting, is how “outdated” features can work for some users when choosing a refurbished model. The truth is that while the latest models come with cutting-edge tech features, sometimes they are just overkill depending on how you use your phone daily.
Most people don’t need the greatest camera, for example. The most basic things we use our devices for such as surfing social media and texting friends almost never need advanced features. Going for slightly older models can save money while still delivering great performance.

In conclusion:

While Wikipedia can provide general information about refurbished iPhones, it often lacks in-depth knowledge. For example, the software updates and specific quality control processes that reputable refurbishes implement to ensure devices meet high standards.
While the temptation of the newest tech can be hard to resist, there’s something to be

said for the charm of slightly older models. When it comes to looking for a reliable device for everyday use, why not go for refurbished devices?
The next time you’re tempted to spend on the latest and greatest, take a moment to consider how a refurbished model with “outdated” features could be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Remember, it’s not always about having the latest gadgets. Sometimes, it’s about finding what works best for you.