Well, let’s face it, iPhones are expensive, right? It’s most probably the reason why buying a used iPhone might seem like a sound decision. If you’re therefore considering buying a used one, it’s best that you got it from a trusted and reputable seller, preferably a friend or a relative. This is because of the risks involved in buying technology on the cheap and also, you want to be sure of what you’re getting yourself into. The best thing about investing in an iPhone whether brand new or old and not an android device, is because iPhones support the most used apps, they are more secure, they work well with most if not all Apple devices, and hey, they are cool too! So, what’s needed or what must you do when buying a second-hand iPhone?
Here’s everything you need to know about what to do after buying a used iPhone:
1. Unlocking the Phone
This is a no brainer, but if you pay close attention, there are important things you’ll learn, things that may affect you in one way or the other. Before you start using your almost new iPhone, the logical thing to do would be to unlock it. If you are looking for a service center that will help you to unlock your iPhone, then you can first go to your nearest apple repair center. If you are looking for a service center that will help you to unlock your iPhone, then you can first go to your nearest apple repair center. When brand new, most iPhone users will activate the phone lock feature. This will not be an issue if the seller has already provided you with the device’s serial number or IMEI. If you click here, you’ll learn of the various ways to unlock a second-hand iPhone that wasn’t stolen and how to activate your new phone. Nonetheless, the chances of unlocking a stolen iPhone are zero, especially if the previous owner had activated the Find My iPhone’ feature. In addition to this, most carriers will also lock your phone when registering as a new user, but as you can see, it’s for your own good, just in case your phone gets stolen, it will be much easier to track it down. That having been said, let’s take a look at the various ways you can unlock a second-hand iPhone. They include:
- Doctor Unlock This is a web-based service where you’ll be required to part with a few coins. Doctor Unlock, formerly known as iphoneimei.net, is a service provided to iPhone users wishing to unlock their phones. According to the developers, it’s a method that actually works. They have features that promise to unlock iPhones and iCloud accounts, they do not violate the terms and conditions set by Apple, and they are affordable.
- IMEI unlocking By far, this yet another unlocking option that promises results. With iPhones, the IMEI is stored in the apple database and it’s what helps to identify your iPhone. The best thing about this method is that it doesn’t void the phone’s warranty.
2. Checking the Warranty
Most iPhone users only use their phones for a short while and then they’ll upgrade to a better version. This means that there’s a higher probability of the phone being under warranty and in a good condition by the time you purchase it. Before you part ways with the seller, it’s important that you ask them for the receipt, if any, and the IMEI or serial number. It cannot be reiterated enough on the importance of authenticating the IMEI or serial number. As you can see, the IMEI plays a significant role in determining whether the iPhone is under warranty.
3. Erasing Previous Owner’s Data
As earlier stated, there are various risks associated with buying second-hand technology and iPhones are no exceptions. It’s for this reason that you’re advised on taking the necessary measures towards ensuring that you don’t fall into such pitfalls. One way to do this is to set up your own Apple ID. Apple users have the advantage of setting up an Apple ID which allows them ease of access to useful Apple services. Also, it could be that the previous owner had not signed out of their iCloud account. If you’re in contact with the previous owner, you may ask them to do the following:
- Unpair their iPhone with their other devices
- Sign out of Applestore, iCloud, and iTunes
- Turn off their ‘Find My Device feature’
- Deregister from iMessage
Alternatively, you can contact your provider for help with issues concerning transferring the services to you. Additionally, the previous owner should also help you in erasing any content and data on the iPhone. Finally, it’s up to you to decide on what you need installed on your iPhone. You can also sync your iPhone with your other devices provided you first download iTunes on them. There are so many cool things you’ll learn with your new found tech, so make good use of it!
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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