What is not enough, for some, may be more than needed for others. The rapid evolution of smartphones means that users change devices every one or two years. However, what does that have to do with a used cell phone? Certain devices, even after long periods of use, still remain in very good condition. So those who are looking for more affordable models can ask them to solve their problems.
Buying a smartphone is not cheap. Depending on the model you want to buy, you may have to spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars. With prices so high, it’s no surprise that sometimes we look for more efficient ways to get a smartphone. We can rob people – even though it is not something we advise you to do – or we can buy a used cellular device – you will always save a few (dozen/tens / hundred) dollars, right? Of course, but remember that there is a possibility you will be cheated when buying it. Even an honest seller might not tell us about the complete condition of the cell phone just because of ignorance.
However, like buying second-hand items, you must be careful, because there is no guarantee that you have the same if you buy a new product. To guide you about the care you need to take before buying a used cell phone, we have listed here five tips, so you are not ready.
Source: goodhousekeeping
1. Where to buy it? On line! There are a number of online auction houses or social networks that make people try to part with their cellphones to get money. You tried eBay, Craigslist, or Swappa. At Swappa, there is even an option to report dishonest sellers and get your money back through PayPal – something that is not every website selling/buying offer.
2. How to buy it? Carefully. Never pay in advance. It is best to set a date and meet with buyers in person, preferably in public spaces with supervision, such as restaurants. Before paying anything, check the device carefully. Remember, any inconsistency between the telephone’s online description and the factual circumstances is a good reason to find another seller.
Source: androidpit
3. Compare the device status with that described. Are there any cuts or cracks? Fill or remaining holes after a failed repair service? Does the seller have a mobile purchase certification? Does the set include chargers, headphones, etc.? It might be a good idea to just turn on the device and use it to make calls, to see if it is properly connected to the network. Cellphones are always with us. At home, at work, at school, and at leisure. For this reason, it is natural that, over time, signs of usage will appear there. Scratches on the back cover and screen are the indicators most often used.
4. Remember to check the telephone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. It can be found behind the smartphone battery, on the back of the cover, or in the box of the device – you can also find it by tapping * # 06 # into the device. Once you have it, you can check IMEI and check the device’s production date and, more importantly, free warranty. We recommend you to visit imei24.com.
In this video, you can check how to check IMEI on your device.
5. It is also necessary to check the IMEI blacklist status. When you check IMEI and BLACKLISTED appears, that means the device was reported lost or stolen in the GSMa database. It can also be blocked because there are unpaid bills for this device. Each cellphone has a universal identification number, called IMEI. When a smartphone is stolen, the owner can notify the operator that the device in question has been lost. With this information, IMEI can be canceled, turning the cellphone into a real paperweight. If you buy a used product, you can check IMEI on several online sites. If it has been blocked for any reason, skip the purchase. Even if the product is not stolen, clogging can cause line interference on the device at any time.
How do I check the status of a blacklist? Simply check the IMEI blacklist service, type the IMEI number of your phone, and get the results.
6. Check other blockades on mobile. Manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi set up a special blockade for the use of devices that were lost or stolen illegally. So before buying a used device, you need to check that any key is ON or OFF.
How to check it? If there is a phone in your hand, place the sim card in it and check whether the phone will function normally.
If you do it online, just ask the seller for the IMEI number and use the iCloud checker to confirm the status of iCloud.
Source: medicalnewstoday
7. Check for model updates
In general, the manufacturer guarantees an update to the Android operating system to two additional versions besides the original. In the case of iOS, live a little longer: up to four generations. So this means that if the smartphone is more than two years old, chances are it has been left behind.
Note that you must count two years from the date of a product launch on the market, and not from the first purchase. The phone that was launched in March 2018 reached the renewal limit in March 2024. Therefore buying it today means a gap of almost two years beyond its limit.
8. Finally, you can evaluate it in one of the official services from the manufacturer. It costs around 50 dollars and will give you all the information about the cellphone software and hardware. If the seller doesn’t agree to do that, it might be a signal that something is wrong with the device – keep that in mind.
Source: kgun9
That’s all everyone! I hope this simple guide will help you buy a used cell phone safely.
