What to do after purchasing a used iPhone? We also introduce points to check before buying.
When purchasing a used iPhone, it's essential to perform checks both before and after the purchase.
While new iPhones also require various settings, with used ones, you must also check for device malfunctions and usage restrictions.
Before purchasing, you should also confirm whether repair services or a replacement device will be provided if the device does not operate normally.
This article introduces key points to know before buying a used iPhone and what to do after the purchase.
It also discusses the risks associated with purchasing a used iPhone.
Things to Know Before Buying a Used iPhone
When buying a used iPhone, ensure two things: choose a SIM-free device and do not dispose of your current iPhone.
Choose a SIM-free device
SIM-free refers to a device where the SIM lock has been removed. A SIM lock prevents the SIM card, which is used to register a subscriber and operate a smartphone, from being used on another carrier's network.
While SIM cards are not typically locked, SIM locks became common as carriers implemented them to protect their profits. However, since a situation where SIM cards could only be used with one carrier limited user choice, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications mandated that mobile phone terminals released on or after October 1, 2021, must be sold without SIM locks. (*)
Many used iPhones still have SIM locks. If a lock is present, you cannot choose a new carrier, so make sure to check beforehand.
*Reference: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications "About SIM Lock"
Do not dispose of your current iPhone, as data migration is necessary.
iPhones are equipped with a "Quick Start" feature for data migration.
By placing new and old iPhones side by side, turning them both on, and following the instructions on the Quick Start screen of the old iPhone, such as entering your ID, the content can be transferred.
If you dispose of your current iPhone, the Quick Start feature becomes unusable.
However, if you have backed up your data to iCloud, you can still restore the backup after disposal.
Checkpoints to follow after purchasing a used iPhone
Here are six checkpoints to examine after purchasing a used iPhone:
- Check network usage restrictions
- Confirm warranty service availability
- Check maximum battery capacity
- Ensure Activation Lock is disabled
- Check for physical damage to the device
- Update iOS
In addition to ensuring the SIM is unlocked, you must also check for network usage restrictions and Activation Lock status.
Point ①: Check network usage restrictions
Network usage restrictions mean that mobile communication is limited by the carrier for specific reasons.
Network usage restrictions are imposed if fraud is confirmed, such as when a device is obtained through theft or fraud, or if the device payment is overdue.
Some used iPhones may have usage restrictions, so check the status using the device's "IMEI number" or through the "Settings" on the device itself.
The IMEI number can be verified on the confirmation sites operated by each mobile carrier.
The types of usage restrictions are as follows:
| Display | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ◯ | No usage restrictions | Device can be used as there are no restrictions |
| ‐ | Potential for usage restrictions | Serial number cannot be confirmed, no sales history |
| △ | Potential for usage restrictions | Can still be used, but outstanding device payments are due, or there's a possibility of usage restrictions if fraudulent contracts are discovered |
| ✕ | Currently restricted | Usage is restricted due to fraudulent acquisition or being a target for collection |
A "◯" indicates it can be used as is.
A "‐" may appear for devices not purchased from a carrier, and the likelihood of usage restriction is low.
A "△" indicates a potential for usage restriction, so caution is advised for such devices.
A "✕" means usage is already restricted, and mobile communication cannot be used.
Point ②: Confirm warranty service availability
A device warranty service allows for repairs or exchanges if a used iPhone malfunctions.
While most used items sold on flea markets and auction sites are purchased at your own risk, authorized stores that handle used smartphones often offer a warranty service.
If you want to prepare for malfunctions or sudden failures of older devices, choose a used iPhone that comes with a device warranty service.
Point ③: Check the maximum battery capacity
Smartphones contain batteries. As they are repeatedly charged and used from new, the battery capacity decreases.
When the battery capacity falls below 80%, apps may malfunction, background updates may fail, and issues like muffled sound from the speaker can occur.
Point ④: Ensure Activation Lock is disabled
Activation Lock is an anti-theft feature built into iPhones.
If this lock is active, users other than the owner cannot use the device.
Before use, you need to confirm that Activation Lock has been disabled.
Unlocking requires the previous owner's Apple ID. If the ID is unknown, contact Apple Support.
Point ⑤: Check for device damage
It is necessary to check if the device is damaged.
Here are the points to check:
[Checklist after purchasing a used iPhone]
| Part | Checkpoints |
|---|---|
| Device body |
|
| Buttons (Power button, Volume buttons) |
|
| Lightning connector |
|
| Speaker |
|
| Screen |
|
| Touch ID/Face ID |
|
| Touch operation |
|
| Call function |
|
| Proximity sensor |
|
| Camera (Front camera, Rear camera) |
|
| Signal and Wi-Fi |
|
Check the above points in order to ensure that the device works without any problems.
Point ⑥: Update iOS
Updating iOS is essential for security against vulnerabilities.
The latest iOS versions include security patches.
Updates improve device stability and performance, and prevent security risks.
Furthermore, many apps are optimized for the latest iOS versions.
Using an older version may prevent them from working correctly.
What are the necessary settings after purchasing a used iPhone?
The necessary settings after purchasing a used iPhone are the following three:
- SIM card replacement
- Data migration
- Initial setup of the used iPhone
You'll replace the SIM card, transfer data, and then proceed with the initial setup.
This process is the same as for a new iPhone, but replacing and initial setup require several steps.
SIM card replacement
First, replace the SIM card.
The procedure is the same as for a new iPhone and is as follows:
[SIM card replacement procedure]
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation |
|
| Removal |
|
| SIM insertion |
|
| Power on |
|
If the SIM tray cannot be inserted correctly or the SIM card is not recognized, check if the method and procedure are incorrect.
If the problem is not resolved even with the correct method, contact the store of purchase or Apple Support.
Data migration
Once you have your iPhone, migrate your data from an iCloud backup or your previous device.
Data migration allows you to transfer various data, such as contacts, apps, photos, and videos, stored on your iPhone or Android device.
Initial setup of the used iPhone
The initial setup of a used iPhone requires connecting to a network, setting up an ID, and signing in.
The steps for initial setup are as follows:
[Steps for initial setup of a used iPhone]
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Account settings |
|
| App installation |
|
| Email settings |
|
| Screen settings |
|
| Notification settings |
|
After migrating data, you will proceed with account and app settings.
Since used devices' batteries degrade more than new ones due to repeated use, adjust settings such as shortening the screen-on time.
Risks of purchasing a used iPhone
The risks of purchasing a used iPhone are two-fold:
- It may break down quickly.
- There is a risk of information leakage.
Used devices carry certain risks because they have already been used by others.
It may break down quickly
Used iPhones may have internal precision parts that are malfunctioning or showing signs of wear.
Devices that have been used for a long time or have experienced drops or damage may break down quickly.
In transactions between individuals, such as on auction or flea market sites, devices with malfunctions or damage may be sold, so it's essential to understand the risks before purchasing and using them.
Risk of information leakage
If malicious apps are installed, there is a risk of information leakage through virus infection or remote control.
Leaving older iOS versions unupdated can also lead to problems such as malicious code execution, posing security risks.
While using a used device itself is not an issue, you must implement security measures to protect your important information.
Check These Points After Purchasing a Used iPhone
This time, we introduced the key points to know before buying a used iPhone and what to do after the purchase.
While used iPhones are cheaper than new ones, it's crucial to check for locks and security vulnerabilities beforehand.
Be cautious of devices sold with unrepaired damage.
Although there are several points to check, some used devices are almost like new.
Check and configure your iPhone to use it comfortably.
PRODIG, the official online store for used smartphones and tablets, handles a large number of used iPhones and offers a 180-day warranty.
We also offer fast shipping, so please consider using our service.
Click here for a list of used iPhone products offered by PRODIG
Click here for a list of used smartphone products offered by PRODIG
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