Brand new iPhones on eBay?

brookhouse

A family member wants an iPhone and is asking about eBay offers.

I am guessing there is a catch to these iPhones on eBay, given that Apple doesn't like discounts on the list price?

Are they imports? Problems running on UK networks? Warranty issues?

Brand New / Unlocked Apple iPhone 5s 16GB Smartphone DD34 - Gold - Factory Sealed - Unlocked - Brand New - Latest Model

Any thoughts?

(Not sure if I am allowed to post link or name supplier!)

Bob~24601

I wouldn't buy a mobile on eBay or Gumtree, due to it may be an upgrade phone, and then after its too late to cancel in Paypal, the seller decides that the phone is stolen, or does not pay their contract, and then the network blocks the phone.

But many people do... so I guess it works for some.

robti

There a couple of these being advertised and from what I gather they are international models and will work okay, but I understand that they need to be repaired at point of origin so your local apple store won't fix them

TadleyBaggie

I've had no problem with Apple replacing a faulty item that was bought on eBay but originated from another country. As far as I'm aware the Apple warranty is worldwide.

robti

IMPORTANT RESTRICTION FOR iPHONE AND iPAD SERVICE.

Apple may restrict warranty service for iPhone and iPad to the country where Apple or its Authorized Distributors originally sold the device.

Taken from the apple uk site (don't know if I am allowed a link)

*Boris*

Have you checked the ebay sellers feedback? might be worth checking incase there's any complaints from previous buyers

gjchester

Unless supplied by Apple (or were destined to be sold in an Apple Retail Store) iPhones will usually lock to the first network they have a SIM card inserted for.

dealer_wins

If a seller had over 100 good feedback over at least 3 years, I would be happy to buy a phone from them, otherwise IMO its too risky!