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Different ways to check second hand Apple iPhone quality before buying
Nowadays, even though having a phone is a necessity for all of us whether we are a student, a working class or a retired senior citizen of the country, smartphones are never cheap despite what others make it seem to be. Sure there are various options of different models and brands to choose from but we always want to buy what we think has the best functionality with us. In most cases, people vote for Apple’s iPhone as the best smartphone of 2023. iOS users remain loyal to Apple products as they have proven to provide them the best quality and service they have been asking for.
But wait! Before you continue to go buy the latest iPhone model out there, there is actually another way that can help without breaking your wallet and bank account. Instead of buying a new one, what if we just sell our old phone and buy a second hand iPhone instead. Sounds good right? But I know what you are thinking. What if the second hand quality is not good because of its depreciated value? Well, here are ways to quality check a second hand iPhone and enjoy the cost-effective premium features of it.
1. Checking the physical condition
Let’s start with an easy one. Look for noticeable scratches, dents, or evident signs of any physical damage. As for the screen, do examine it for cracks, dead pixels showing and such. You can also check for uniform brightness and color reproduction of the phone by turning it on. Do not forget to also test physical buttons. These include (1) volume button, (2) power button, and (3) home button for those older models. Newer iPhone models do not have home buttons already.
2. Functionality testing of the phone
Of course, we are buying the phone for a reason, its functionality. Make sure to test all of its basic functions such as (1) checking if it can make or receive incoming calls, (2) send messages without delay, and (3) both front and rear cameras are working well. Another is to check if the phone is able to connect to (1) Wi-Fi, (2) mobile data, (3) AirDrop, and (4) other bluetooth devices. Check the charging ports and if it is able to connect to wireless earphones as well.
3. See if the battery health is okay
Most people check the battery health as this plays an important part in determining how good the phone is and how well taken care of by its previous owner. To assess the battery health and the phone capacity, Go to ‘Settings’ > Tap on ‘Battery’ > Then tap on ‘Battery Health’. It does not have to be at 100% capacity since it is already second hand. Any phone with a battery capacity above 80% is already considered good.
4. Inspect the software
Since Apple releases a new model every year, they also update their iOS version from time to time. With this, older models may not be compatible with the latest iOS version. You can still use the phone as it is but will not be able to enjoy new features that come with the updated iOS release. In addition, check for any unusual behavior of the software such as frequent crashes or unresponsiveness.
5. Evaluate storage capacity
Some sellers might advertise the storage capacity incorrectly to attract more potential buyers. With this, confirm first if it matches the actual storage on the device. Go to ‘Settings’ > Tap on ‘General’ > Then tap on ‘iPhone Storage’ to double check.
6. Double check IMEI / MEID/ ICCID or its Serial Number
To ensure that the Apple device is not stolen or blacklisted, obtain the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) that serves as your phone’s fingerprint and verify it through Apple’s official website or through customer support. A 15-digit number is unique to each device to enable manufacturers to track smartphones that may have been stolen or compromised.
There are currently four ways you can find the serial number. First is by checking it in Settings. Go to ‘Settings’ > Tap on ‘General’ > Tap ‘About’. Scroll down to look for IMEI/MEID and ICCID.
Second option is when you want to check it before setting up the device. Turn on your device and then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. You will be able to see the Info button located in the bottom right corner of the screen.
As for the third option, if the iPhone has a SIM tray, you can locate the IMEI/MEID there. For even older models like iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s, the serial number is also included in the SIM tray.
Your fourth option for slightly older iPhone models, you can simply check it at the back of your phone.
7. Disconnected Apple ID and iCloud
Do double check if the iPhone is still associated with an existing Apple ID. Reset the device to prompt the activation lock screen. This should be bypassed by the seller before selling the phone to you.
8. See if there is water damage
Like any electronic device, water damage can lead to serious issues with your iPhone. You can inspect the LCI (Liquid Contact Indicators) which is located in the SIM card tray and charging port for any signs of damage.
9. Don’t forget to ask for proofs
To also ensure the authenticity of the Apple product, ask for any documentation that they purchased the iPhone at a trusted store or reseller. This could be in the form of original purchase receipt, warranty information or the outbox that it comes with.
10. Only buy from trusted resellers. In LookingFour, we have Sigurado Sellers.
Consider only buying from resellers that are authorized resellers or through online marketplaces that have buyer protection. In LookingFour, we have Sigurado Sellers! They are sellers that submitted verification requirements with us and are divided into three different tiers.
NEWCOMERS are those who have provided a valid email address, cell phone number and have connected their Facebook account. SILVER CERTIFIED SIGURADO SELLERS are those who have provided a valid ID alongside with a selfie video to make sure that it is their own ID they have submitted. GOLD CERTIFIED SIGURADO SELLERS are those who have provided a valid proof of billing that has their name and address in it.
All of these precautionary measures are part of LookingFour’s initiative to help our buyers feel at ease.
Check out these featured items to buy an affordable second hand Apple iPhone.
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