5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used iPhone
Are you thinking about purchasing a used iPhone to save some money but still enjoy the benefits of owning an Apple device? While buying a used iPhone can be a great way to cut costs, there are a few important factors you should pay close attention to. In this blog post, we will discuss five key aspects to consider when buying a used iPhone to ensure you make a smart and informed decision.
1. iCloud Lock
One of the first things you should check when buying a used iPhone is whether it has an iCloud lock. An iCloud lock occurs when the previous owner didn’t log out of their account. This can create issues when you try to log in with your own account because you need the previous owner’s password to log out. To verify this, follow these steps:
- Turn on the phone and go through the initial setup.
- If you can enter your email address without any issues, the phone is not locked.
- If the device asks you to sign in to an iCloud account, ask the seller to turn off “Find My” and remove their account. If there is no account associated with the device, it’s safe to use.
2. IMEI and Serial Number
Every iPhone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) and serial number. You must ensure that the numbers on the phone match those on the box to avoid potential issues. Here’s how to check the IMEI and serial numbers:
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to General > About.
- Copy the serial number and compare it to the one on the box.
You can also use online services to check the device’s age and history by entering the serial number.
3. Face ID
Face ID is an essential feature on modern iPhones, but it can fail due to various reasons. Before purchasing a used iPhone, check if Face ID is functioning correctly. Follow these steps:
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to Face ID & Passcode.
- Start the Face ID setup process briefly to ensure it’s working.
This quick test will help you avoid potential issues with Face ID after the purchase.
4. Display
It’s essential to verify the condition of the iPhone’s display. Two things to check are True Tone functionality and the absence of dead pixels or screen burn. To check True Tone:
- Go to Settings.
- Access Display & Brightness.
- See if you can enable True Tone.
To check for screen issues, you can download a screen testing app or inspect the display manually. Look for spots, yellow stains, dark areas, or variations in brightness.
5. Battery Health
Battery health is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a used iPhone. Check the maximum battery capacity to ensure it can last a reasonable amount of time. A battery health percentage above 84-85% is typically good for normal usage.
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to Battery > Battery Health.
- Check the maximum battery capacity.
If you find an iPhone with a battery health percentage in the 90s, it’s an excellent choice for extended usage.
Conclusion
When buying a used iPhone, taking the time to thoroughly inspect these five aspects can help you make a wise investment and avoid potential issues down the road. While used iPhones can provide excellent value, it’s essential to be a smart and informed shopper. By following these guidelines, you can make a purchase that meets your needs and expectations while saving money. Enjoy your new (to you) iPhone!
We hope you found this information helpful. If you did, don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more insightful content. Thanks for reading!