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My eBay experience (techno.trading.house)

Hi everyone,
I want to share my journey with the Z3, and the experience with buying from eBay, specifically from a seller, techno.trading.house (Steph, Ed). I bought two brand new Z3 (D6603)--a black one for myself, and a white one for my girlfriend. The order was smooth, and the phones came in pretty much brand new (open box though) with their plastic peel-screens on the glass, untouched. After using the two for a few hours, I noticed that my black one had a defective sensor (photo). The seller advertised "hassle-free" exchanges/refunds, so I reported the defect and had the black one exchanged right away.
After a week, the new one came, the same brand new (open box) condition as the previous phones. However, there was a slight manufacturing defect with the USB flap--it closes completely at a slant (photo). I spelled out the issue with the seller, and here was how it went:
SELLER: I'm sorry to hear that! We will certainly replace it for you, I believe that your phone would be damaged underwater if that or any other flap was not closed properly. (I also do strongly suggest to avoid wetting the phone just in case). Please return the phone to...
ME (after 2 days delivered to them): Hi, have you receive the package yet, and have you ship out the new phone?
SELLER: Your return has been received. If you had chosen to receive a replacement, it will be sent within 2 days. If you have opted for a refund, it will be issued within 24 hours minus applicable restocking fee.
ME: Do you have tracking info? Thanks!
SELLER: Our records indicate that we have already sent a replacement. You have reached out to us to let us know that the replacement has the same issue. In order to avoid another occurrence, we recommend that we proceed with a refund for this item. Please let us know if this is okay.
ME: Sorry, I am not sure what you are saying. Are you talking about the previous replacement or the 2nd replacement being shipped out? I am currently waiting for the 2nd replacement. You said "sure" on the second replacement last week.
SELLER: We are talking about the previous replacement. We believe since both- the original phone and the replacement phone- has had the same issue, that a refund might be best. Let us know if this is ok.
ME: That is not correct. First phone had a defective camera. Second one had a manufacturer defect on the flap. You agreed for the second exchange, so I am not sure why you are backing out now? I need the phone as I have been using an old dumb phone for work for a week already.
SELLER: I'm very sorry for the confusion. I just read back through the emails and you are indeed correct. We will have your replacement unit shipped today. Here is your tracking number. Again, I am sorry for the confusion. Have a great day!
ME: Thanks. I just hope the new one does not have any defect--I will be checking it. If it's not shipped out yet, anyway you can inspect these? Thank you.
SELLER: Hello, Not a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the 2nd replacement came (third phone), and the phone came in a used/open condition. There were no plastic peel-screens on either side of the glass and the USB wire was laying in there without its plastic wrappers. I knew immediately this was used, so I began close inspection of the phone. I found that the power button had a noticeable dent on one side, as if it was dropped on a table before. At this point, I don't know what to do with the phone. I have summoned the seller to see what they plan to do with this situation.
It appears that the seller recycles their returned phones and try to sell them as new, or whatever it is. I am extremely disappointed with this seller, and I want others to know so they may not fall into the same trap.
I checked the current feedback, and it appears someone had the same situation (photo). Go figure!

To me this sounds like a fair seller and a picky buyer. 832 positive reviews and 6 negative ones in a month is a ratio I would buy at if I wanted to save a hundred bucks by buying without factory warranty.

It could have been an honest mistake. I doubt he purposely gave you an opened one, just work with him to solve the problem. eBay is much harder on sellers than buyers and he would ruin his reputation if he did it on purpose. Looking at his rating I would say it was an honest mistake.
I understand if he wants to refund you, he is just trying to cut his losses. At the same time it was your misfortune to get a bad device/s. Since this phone is known for cosmetic/other issues as its in early production you are better of buying from Sony/carrier making replacement easier.

abhinav.tella said:
It could have been an honest mistake. I doubt he purposely gave you an opened one, just work with him to solve the problem. eBay is much harder on sellers than buyers and he would ruin his reputation if he did it on purpose. Looking at his rating I would say it was an honest mistake.
I understand if he wants to refund you, he is just trying to cut his losses. At the same time it was your misfortune to get a bad device/s. Since this phone is known for cosmetic/other issues as its in early production you are better of buying from Sony/carrier making replacement easier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
remember me?
I'm sorry to hear that. It was really a frustrating moment you went through. If I were you I would probably be really angry.
If you want, just buy it from Sony store. I got mine and it's perfect so far (except some cosmetic minor faults).

I bought two phones directly from the same seller. The price was cheaper on their own site vs eBay or Amazon. Both phones are perfect. They came in non sealed boxes. I've got no complaints.

android404 said:
To me this sounds like a fair seller and a picky buyer. 832 positive reviews and 6 negative ones in a month is a ratio I would buy at if I wanted to save a hundred bucks by buying without factory warranty.
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Click to collapse
I may be a picky buyer, but who wouldn't be when you receive a defective product, and even worse when you get a used one on your third one. Feedbacks mean jack when you are on the short end. They are only good for initial decision about the seller, hence I trust them like you would too.
abhinav.tella said:
It could have been an honest mistake. I doubt he purposely gave you an opened one, just work with him to solve the problem. eBay is much harder on sellers than buyers and he would ruin his reputation if he did it on purpose. Looking at his rating I would say it was an honest mistake.
I understand if he wants to refund you, he is just trying to cut his losses. At the same time it was your misfortune to get a bad device/s. Since this phone is known for cosmetic/other issues as its in early production you are better of buying from Sony/carrier making replacement easier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you are right on the honest mistake.
bluesky2111 said:
remember me?
I'm sorry to hear that. It was really a frustrating moment you went through. If I were you I would probably be really angry.
If you want, just buy it from Sony store. I got mine and it's perfect so far (except some cosmetic minor faults).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I really regret not buying from Sony store, or even T-Mobile here. At this point, I might just say screw it, keep the phone, and move on with my life. Maybe the Z4 will entice me in few months. :good:

I purchased 3 different Z3 D6603 from Techno Trading, Never-MSRP, and Sony Direct all off ebay.
Techno Trading shipping a Central America version of the D6603 (White) to me and it had no seals whatsoever on the box (US Charger). This model would not show LTE indicator until I flashed a generic TFT. Booting with Encryption shows the Pin Entry text in Spanish but quickly changes to English. Seller Feedack: Shipped very quickly but using subpar shipping materials. Shipped from Miami.
Never-MSRP shipped a Central Europe version of the D6603 (Copper) to me and it HAD seals on the box but also included a Sony Screen Protector (Non-US Charger). This model had the LTE indicator from start. Booting with Encryption shows the Pin Entry text in English. Seller Feedback: Shipped same day and was packaged very well. Unfortunately, they are located in Houston so I had to pay tax.
Sony Direct shipped a Generic North American model of the D6603 (Green) to me. This one had seals on the box but didn't include the Screen Protector. LTE shows from start and includes a US Charger. Plastic on the front and back of phone is totally different than the other two. Its hard to describe but the other phones came with a very very thin plastic protector. This model shipped with much thicker protectors on front and back (still meant to be removed because they have tabs on the side). Additionally, the other two phones were inside a cellophane bag but the this model was not in cellophane. Shipped from Sony in Romeoville IL. Shipped within two hours of purchase using FedEx for free. Unfortunately, Sony charges tax everywhere. Packaged well but not great.
My point...
Sony packages models different based on their intended destination. It might not be that you ever got "open box" devices but rather they were intended for an area which Sony (for whatever reason) chose not to use seals.

mwep said:
My point...
Sony packages models different based on their intended destination. It might not be that you ever got "open box" devices but rather they were intended for an area which Sony (for whatever reason) chose not to use seals.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is interesting. Before buying from techno, I bought a white one from tropical_mobile (in which I sold quickly due to being D6653), who stated they were located in Tennessee, but shipped from Singapore. However, the phone was sealed with two white rounded "sealed" stickers on the box. The phone also was sealed in a clear plastic slip and had protective screens on both sides.
This whole Z3 deal has been pretty bad luck for me. Maybe it is not meant to be. But good news--the seller techno.trading.house got back to me, and is willing to refund me $20 for the dented power button, or do another replacement. I'm planning to take the refund, and live with it as I am sick of all the exchanges. Who knows, the replacement might have even weirder issues.

If you spend $500 plus on an item, you the buyer, have every right on this planet to be as picky as you like.
Nobody has to settle for anything less than perfection.
So no, you don't have to accept a defective camera, or flap or indeed a previously returned phone.
As I mentioned before but was lambasted in another thread, Sony may be using premium materials, but they are certainly not using premium construction. Not when some people have to go through six boxes in store to find a unit without light bleed and gaps.
I myself had two exchanges within the first two weeks. My first unit was simply not waterproof and had a leaky flap and my second one didn't charge on the magnetic dock and now I have light bleed but no energy to fight it anymore.
It's almost as bad as an iPhone. All my iPhone friends have had multiple exchanges... Some as many as 5 in a year.
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app

More recent feedbacks to prove my point.

stop accepting being called a picky buyer.... ur paying top dollar for the phone, that said u should receive a product good for the purpose, if the camera doesn't work its not good
if the phone isnt water proof it isnt good
if there is a dent in the design it should state it before being bought. so it's not the buyer nor seller (purposely) its a unlucky sale.

I purchased mine at t-mobile. I paid 100% upfront despite being with t-mobile and they unlock it on the spot. When I registered with Xperia Care (sonymobiles product registration) I entered my IMEI and it has till Oct 2016 on warranty.
However on the 2nd day of owning the device The bottom speaker stopped working and was making a static noise. I went to my t-mo store I purchased it and they swapped it out. I didn't even pay a restocking fee. The manager said as long as I get the same phone and since I bought it back so promptly that he would just swap a new one. This one has been perfect since. Sometimes the convenience of having a store near by is better than having to deal with shipping my phone back and forth!
Alot of people dont want the tmobile Bloatwear but like I said, 32 GB + Local customer support outweight > No bloatwear & 16 Gig with mail in issues. (since i have no sony store near by, id still have to mail in for repairs and exchanges)

Me too, I'm glad I bought it from TMO with an EIP, exchanged mine 3 times on my 4th now, no hassles or fees.

Ice Dot View Case Hinge tearing?

Hi all,
I have an official HTC Dot view case for my M9, the ICE version (with the transparent back) but I have found that just after a month of normal use, the hinge is starting to tear from the inside, just where it is connected to the hard transparent back.
I was wondering if anyone else is experiencing this.
I'm going to try and get a replacement from the store as I am surprised at the quality issue with this one, just hope it's a one off.
I've never had this issue with my m8 Dot View case.

Same exact thing happened to me, in about 2 weeks. I went to the Verizon store where I bought it, and they offer 14 day returns, and my entire front flap ripped off at 15 days.
I even reached out to HTC, and they said that you have to get warranty thru the store you bought it at. Needless to say, I'm really ****ing pissed, and only saw this post when I came here to find a new case. It just really pisses me off that I got roped into the m9 due to the dotview case, and it ****ing fell apart in 2 weeks. Nice flagship case for your flagship phone, HTC. Ya jerks.

godzirrarawr said:
Same exact thing happened to me, in about 2 weeks. I went to the Verizon store where I bought it, and they offer 14 day returns, and my entire front flap ripped off at 15 days.
I even reached out to HTC, and they said that you have to get warranty thru the store you bought it at. Needless to say, I'm really ****ing pissed, and only saw this post when I came here to find a new case. It just really pisses me off that I got roped into the m9 due to the dotview case, and it ****ing fell apart in 2 weeks. Nice flagship case for your flagship phone, HTC. Ya jerks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Luckily I bought mine at best buy, I couldn't get my money back because they have the 15 day policy, but I was able to get store credit and switched to the otterbox. My ice case tore right at the 30 day mark.
That doesn't seem right, HTC should have a standard product warranty. They are willing to give another device through uh-oh protection, but not a case? That's a noodle scratcher if I've ever heard one.

Another ripped case here, after a month of use, contacted HTC, they said to go to the supplier, even though i purchased the case through the HTC Website... It's a bit of a joke and then the online chat rep eventually told me to try contact expansy's which doesn't make any sense either. Ordered a new spiegen slim case anyway now but still trying to claim my compensation back

I had a lengthy discussion with htc support and they basically told me to contact the retailer.
When I told them they are responsible for warranty claims, they basically told me they can't fulfil their own warranty policy.
Really its a joke, if I had the time and energy I would take them to court, as this is clearly illegal.
**********
Sent from a tin of baked beans using some chewing gum, tinfoil, a piece of string and a manual written by MacGyver

Same thing is happening to mine! Found this topic through a search. Really disappointed but haven't reached out to anyone yet. Bottom of hinge barely on now. Really wanted this case and it's such a let down.

Does anyone know if that can happen with the first version of the dot view case for the m9?

Carphone warehouse is sending out a replacement to me.. I'll keep an eye out if it happens again.. Haven't received it yet..
**********
Sent from a tin of baked beans using some chewing gum, tinfoil, a piece of string and a manual written by MacGyver

I wonder if I should not buy a clone then, I thought the main advantage of the original cover is the durability...
Sent from my HTC One M9 using XDA Free mobile app

vegetaleb said:
I wonder if I should not buy a clone then, I thought the main advantage of the original cover is the durability...
Sent from my HTC One M9 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anything is better than the original, poorly maid, probably to have consumers buy multiple cases to help HTC make up for quarterly revenue

I just noticed that HTC did 2 different Dot View cases for the M9, the Ice which is transparent back and the normal one which is like the M8 Dot view.
Do you think only the Ice version has problems?
What do you think about this case? http://www.amazon.com/case-Rock-Ult...p/B00VND5HQK/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

vegetaleb said:
I just noticed that HTC did 2 different Dot View cases for the M9, the Ice which is transparent back and the normal one which is like the M8 Dot view.
Do you think only the Ice version has problems?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing I can say is the grey backed one is the one I had on the m8, never had an issue with it.
My gut feeling would be it only effects the ice cases, which is doubly irritating as that is supposed to be the more premium one...

Just had a look and mine is doing the same
@p50kombi did you just go in store or call them?

Electronic Punk said:
Just had a look and mine is doing the same
@p50kombi did you just go in store or call them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't ask mate...
I went to the store first, but they are just a bunch of idiots..
I thin kI told you before I had a run in at the store before, this time was no different.
They told me they couldn't do anything about it in store and I should call HTC.
I can post the log from my conversation with HTC, they basically said they can't fulfil their own warranty policy and I should go back to CPW..
I really didn't want to go back to the store and waist another hour of my life debating with the knobs there, so decided to call CPW instead.
The woman on the phone sorted it out for me after me explaining my road towards my call with her...
Best bet would be to call them.
Maybe mention there seems to be a real issue with this case and maybe they can push HTC from their side to do something about it....
Man, it makes my head hurt already knowing that I probably will be doing the same after another months worth of use, as the new dot view case shows hairline cracks in the rubber already....

Yeah distinct lack of effort on cases this time, 3 **** colours and low quality imho, bottom of my case is not nicely drilled and has tiny bits of discoloured rubber where it hasn't been done properly.

kash20 said:
Another ripped case here, after a month of use, contacted HTC, they said to go to the supplier, even though i purchased the case through the HTC Website... It's a bit of a joke and then the online chat rep eventually told me to try contact expansy's which doesn't make any sense either. Ordered a new spiegen slim case anyway now but still trying to claim my compensation back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's because the "htc accessories website" is operated by expansys. i don't even know if that's the real official website.
the same happened to mine ICE case, i am still waiting for reply from expansys.

Ok went to the store (same store I actually had my online delivery that gave me it 4 days early - so pretty chill / clueless guys but regardless awesome because of it.
They weren't sure on the warranty policy so put me through to customers services. Without evening asking for name/number they told me the warranty was 6 months (which I actually believe is incorrect but serves purpose) and that the store should be able to replace it.
I had the nice lady repeat this for an employee. Boom, job jobbed.
Actually quite obvious on the tearing when the phone is out of the case.
Confirmation from "head office" was all they needed which I assume they meant customer services.
Would encourage everyone to do this to be honest, although a fan of HTC, they should not get away with low quality "premium" accessories and if this has an inherent fault then it needs to be sorted out.
Don't be afraid and if needed point them to this thread, might even start getting this talked on Elevate as I am disappointed in the variety of cases this year and miss my Orange M8

Electronic Punk said:
Ok went to the store (same store I actually had my online delivery that gave me it 4 days early - so pretty chill / clueless guys but regardless awesome because of it.
They weren't sure on the warranty policy so put me through to customers services. Without evening asking for name/number they told me the warranty was 6 months (which I actually believe is incorrect but serves purpose) and that the store should be able to replace it.
I had the nice lady repeat this for an employee. Boom, job jobbed.
Actually quite obvious on the tearing when the phone is out of the case.
Confirmation from "head office" was all they needed which I assume they meant customer services.
Would encourage everyone to do this to be honest, although a fan of HTC, they should not get away with low quality "premium" accessories and if this has an inherent fault then it needs to be sorted out.
Don't be afraid and if needed point them to this thread, might even start getting this talked on Elevate as I am disappointed in the variety of cases this year and miss my Orange M8
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I already posted this on elevate, not really a great deal of response there, just a few others who have similar issues but no response from HTC...
Interesting fact to add is the HTC warranty team I spoke to over the phone had no idea what HTC elevate is...

expansys will also change my case. they say that the first series had a problem that is now solved. will see in a month i guess.

sleby said:
expansys will also change my case. they say that the first series had a problem that is now solved. will see in a month i guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I don't believe that for a start
Secondly, no reason to be believe this isn't going to happen to my second case, can already see a gap.
Thirdly, nice of HTC to mention it :s

Done with Samsung

Yesterday morning my phone of the past 14 months decided to drop dead for no good reason. Called Samsung, and they told me I either have to send them the phone for repairs (that could take 2-4 weeks) without a loaner or I could take it to one of their stores. Their closest store to me is their location close to downtown LA about 15-20 miles away from me. Before leaving, I tried to call them in excess of 20 times, and they never picked up. Took a chance and drove there in the middle of rush hour traffic on Friday night to be confronted by absolute buffoons.
They said it's either the battery or the motherboard. Fixing the motherboard isn't worth it, but I could replace the battery for $45 and that may or may not fix the problem. Took a chance and went ahead with battery replacement because based on their description, this was likely a battery issue. My gamble - my loss.
Did I get a call\email\holla\anything?? from them once they found out the motherboard was dead? Nope. Did they ever answer their phone? Nope. Drove back there today in the middle of a very busy and exhausting day just to find out those losers couldn't fix the phone.
The moral of the story is this.... you as a customer mean absolutely nothing to Samsung. Zero customer service. They leave their phones off the hook just because those lazy bastards simply don't give a **** about you, your time, your inconvenience, but they have the audacity to charge you for paperweight.
A company that has a problem with combustible phones, couldn't do any better with customer service!??? maybe? Why would I continue to bash apple and iphone when they have stores nearby, offer loaners, better product, and better customer service? Why would I buy another product from a company that doesn't stand behind its products and treats its customers like ****. Have had S1, S3, S5, and S7E....No more Samsung for me!

wait, don't you got 2 year warranty like everyone? so you don't give a sh** about battery fault or motherboard fault or anything else, just take it to them, and get repaired, no questions what is dead, you don't care..
and never ever heard of that kind of repair shop where you being asked what to replace.. wtf.. that is their job to find out what is wrong, fix it, and test it..

Yup, it's kind of hard to keep slamming Apple when they stand behind their phones, repair them for you and update them the same day the update is available. No waiting 180 days for an update to the next version of the OS and no waiting for security updates that may or may not ever come. I've loved Android and I have really liked many of Samsung's phones in particular, but I think my Android and Samsung days are getting close to being done. There is no rhyme or reason as to why the phones do what they do sometimes, no rhyme or reason as to how badly the battery deteriorates over very little time and no reason why most of these Android vendors simply turn their backs on a flagship phone once it is released because the next latest and greatest thing has arrived. I never thought I would say this, but I think I'm on my way to iPhone Land after my contract with this S7 Edge is up on my carrier.

digitall1982 said:
wait, don't you got 2 year warranty like everyone? so you don't give a sh** about battery fault or motherboard fault or anything else, just take it to them, and get repaired, no questions what is dead, you don't care..
and never ever heard of that kind of repair shop where you being asked what to replace.. wtf.. that is their job to find out what is wrong, fix it, and test it..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung has a 1 year warranty, and this was their official repair shop (see if you can call them):
3150 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 206, Los Angeles, CA 90010-1305
Phone: 213-637-0191

TheIgster said:
Yup, it's kind of hard to keep slamming Apple when they stand behind their phones, repair them for you and update them the same day the update is available. No waiting 180 days for an update to the next version of the OS and no waiting for security updates that may or may not ever come. I've loved Android and I have really liked many of Samsung's phones in particular, but I think my Android and Samsung days are getting close to being done. There is no rhyme or reason as to why the phones do what they do sometimes, no rhyme or reason as to how badly the battery deteriorates over very little time and no reason why most of these Android vendors simply turn their backs on a flagship phone once it is released because the next latest and greatest thing has arrived. I never thought I would say this, but I think I'm on my way to iPhone Land after my contract with this S7 Edge is up on my carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They used to be different than apple. SD cards, replaceable batteries, easier maintenance, unlocked boot-loaders, etc. What's the appeal now? They do the same shady things apple does except that they don't have the backbone of Apple's customer service. After all the note7 disasters, you'd think they'd learn their lessons...nope. They charge top dollar for devices that simply lack quality.
I'm shopping around for a new phone right now, and it's tough switching to iOS. I've despised iOS for a long time, but I might have to get it over with.

pvc_ said:
Samsung has a 1 year warranty, and this was their official repair shop (see if you can call them):
3150 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 206, Los Angeles, CA 90010-1305
Phone: 213-637-0191
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aha, in US they got only 1 y warranty.. shame..
here in europe 2 year warranty is for all, samsung, lg, sony, etc, etc, except crApple off course.. only 1 y for them..
and that is totally shame for any official repair shop! doesn't matter is it samsung or some other brand...
repair shop must do their job, not offer what to repair.. it's just stupid, funny, insane, and thanks god not possible in europe..
in here customers have more rights i think... and repair shops (of any brand) just do their job

pvc_ said:
They used to be different than apple. SD cards, replaceable batteries, easier maintenance, unlocked boot-loaders, etc. What's the appeal now? They do the same shady things apple does except that they don't have the backbone of Apple's customer service. After all the note7 disasters, you'd think they'd learn their lessons...nope. They charge top dollar for devices that simply lack quality.
I'm shopping around for a new phone right now, and it's tough switching to iOS. I've despised iOS for a long time, but I might have to get it over with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you despise IOS why don't you get a Pixel or wait for the new one? Instant updates and I assume better customer service than Samsung.

The problem is Samsung is sourcing a local company for the "privelage" of them being their official stores/service centers. In the UK I think it's CPW. In my country it's MemoXpress. All Samsung stores are run by said company for that country. They aren't Samsung at all. Same goes actually for Apple in my country. There is no Apple Care here, just some chain of stores called PowerMac who has a deal with Apple to be their local tie-up company.
So basically, whatever Android brand you go to in the US, with the exception of Pixels perhaps, that's what you'll get too. You can file complaints against Samsung though. I remember a case where CPW was unwilling to honor a warranty, the guy contacted Samsung directly who then told CPW to honor the warranty.

Meh while i feel your frustration it happens everywhere with every product.
Not just Samsung, Apple too, any product you find.
Some times you get stores that pride them-self, managers that give a ****, and other times you don't. Its luck and area and just a draw of bad luck if it doesn't go your way.
Focus your anger on making an official complaint to HQ, as other have stated you have gone into a repair shop, They cannot quote you to fix something they have no idea about.
The device has to be diagnosed then quoted and given the choice to repair if you are liable to pay.
This is not just the practise in mobile phones, any repair job goes down this route.

chanchan05 said:
The problem is Samsung is sourcing a local company for the "privelage" of them being their official stores/service centers. In the UK I think it's CPW. In my country it's MemoXpress. All Samsung stores are run by said company for that country. They aren't Samsung at all. Same goes actually for Apple in my country. There is no Apple Care here, just some chain of stores called PowerMac who has a deal with Apple to be their local tie-up company.
So basically, whatever Android brand you go to in the US, with the exception of Pixels perhaps, that's what you'll get too. You can file complaints against Samsung though. I remember a case where CPW was unwilling to honor a warranty, the guy contacted Samsung directly who then told CPW to honor the warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, you are right. Samsung has a "contractor" for their aftersales support, or official store in almost every country. Say for me here in Bahrain, Bin Hindi, which is holding the sales and servicing of all Samsung's, they really have a superb service. My wife had splashed her S6 before and Bin Hindi repaired it at no cost and efficiently. Maybe you can contact the "main" Samsung directly and file a complaint so they will take action for the erring "contractor" as it is surely this kind of company affiliated with Samsung will ruin its reputation.

digitall1982 said:
aha, in US they got only 1 y warranty.. shame..
here in europe 2 year warranty is for all, samsung, lg, sony, etc, etc, except crApple off course.. only 1 y for them..
and that is totally shame for any official repair shop! doesn't matter is it samsung or some other brand...
repair shop must do their job, not offer what to repair.. it's just stupid, funny, insane, and thanks god not possible in europe..
in here customers have more rights i think... and repair shops (of any brand) just do their job
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In Europe (at least in Portugal), Apple only gives 1year warranty. BUT the store has to give 2years. So, Apple gives 1Year, the Store gives another year (at their expenses).

How can so many people defend Apple, when they take everything from you? Hmmm, they charged the highest price possible for repairs or hardware, and do it at their own shop by the hour too. Their products are never DIY like Android phones. You really play around with an Iphone and they complain about it. You are forced to take your Iphone to a shop to fix. So do not twist things around and try to persuade others to switch. So sick of the Apple fans trying to get us Android users to switch or PC users to switch. There are problems with Apple products just as much or the same as other products. The only reason Apple support is better because they enjoy taking more money and getting it easier. If vampires are real, it is Apple.
If you ever look at Best Buy website for unlocked phones. There are so many, many more Iphones listed as already used and refurbished than any other phone for sale. That does not mean Apple is better, it means more people are not enjoying the phone and taking it back, which to me is bad, not good.

Motherboard faults, deliberate design?

With so many people needing to replace their motherboards, even in the Note Edge XDA forum and across other forums, well, everywhere, does anyone else think this could possibly be planned obsolescence on the part of Samsung?
Is it possible they have deliberately designed them to fail after a set period of time (This mostly occurs after the warranty period has ended) ?
I could understand if this was an issue due to numerous rom installs etc but it is also happening to people who have never rooted or flashed their phones.
I thought it was only happening to Note 4's but was thinking of buying a new Note Edge as I like the design and only want a phone with the stylus and a removable battery. So I had a look at the Note Edge forum on XDA. The same issue is happening with their phones too. I raised this issue with Samsung and when they advised it would cost me over $400 AU to replace the motherboard I was not impressed.
It would be more palatable to think it was an issue with the design of the phone but for it to almost always happen after the warranty period has expired... if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...

o0o.paw said:
With so many people needing to replace their motherboards, even in the Note Edge XDA forum and across other forums, well, everywhere, does anyone else think this could possibly be planned obsolescence on the part of Samsung?
Is it possible they have deliberately designed them to fail after a set period of time (This mostly occurs after the warranty period has ended) ?
I could understand if this was an issue due to numerous rom installs etc but it is also happening to people who have never rooted or flashed their phones.
I thought it was only happening to Note 4's but was thinking of buying a new Note Edge as I like the design and only want a phone with the stylus and a removable battery. So I had a look at the Note Edge forum on XDA. The same issue is happening with their phones too. I raised this issue with Samsung and when they advised it would cost me over $400 AU to replace the motherboard I was not impressed.
It would be more palatable to think it was an issue with the design of the phone but for it to almost always happen after the warranty period has expired... if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's why I hate updates.
They usually add butt loads of bloatware and drive your phone nuts.
The harder it works, the faster it burns out.

o0o.paw said:
With so many people needing to replace their motherboards, even in the Note Edge XDA forum and across other forums, well, everywhere, does anyone else think this could possibly be planned obsolescence on the part of Samsung?
Is it possible they have deliberately designed them to fail after a set period of time (This mostly occurs after the warranty period has ended) ?
I could understand if this was an issue due to numerous rom installs etc but it is also happening to people who have never rooted or flashed their phones.
I thought it was only happening to Note 4's but was thinking of buying a new Note Edge as I like the design and only want a phone with the stylus and a removable battery. So I had a look at the Note Edge forum on XDA. The same issue is happening with their phones too. I raised this issue with Samsung and when they advised it would cost me over $400 AU to replace the motherboard I was not impressed.
It would be more palatable to think it was an issue with the design of the phone but for it to almost always happen after the warranty period has expired... if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bought the phone in late 2014. Still working fine and no issues on the MB side. Althogh i had to change the batteries 5-6 times during this period.

I received an update from Samsung. They've asked me to drop it off at a kiosk or service centre and the they will have a look at it so see if it is an issue with the motherboard (which it definitely is). If it is they "may provide me with a remedy". Not sure what that means but I am just happy they have said they will have a look at it
Thought I'd add, they know I bought the phone second hand so I wasn't sure if they'd even look at it. Really impressed with the service even if they don't repair it.
I just hope they don't offer me a newer Note, I just want my phone fixed. I'd hate a phone without a removable battery.

Keep Us Updated (or me), every detail. I know that its like pulling teeth to get a repair person to divulge details.... Would love to have a newer Note or even replacement.

My MB died due to too many apps 400+ and running very hot for 1 year. So be warned do not run it HOT. Replaced with new MB costing £150 in UK.

unimatrix725 said:
Keep Us Updated (or me), every detail. I know that its like pulling teeth to get a repair person to divulge details.... Would love to have a newer Note or even replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung did agree to replace the motherboard, the only issue I had was I had purchased the note second hand and didn't have proof of purchase. I'd taken it into the Samsung kiosk and they determined it was a motherboard issue. It had actually turned off and would only boot into the Samsung recovery when I took it in.
About a week before this I had to call an ambulance urgently and the phone froze three times. I had to keep taking the battery out. I finally got through. I pointed out to Samsung that a family member could have died from this. That may have swayed them a little but again as I had purchased it second hand they would not touch it. The guy at the kiosk said it was because it could have been stolen, so yeh on top of me freaking out because I was trying to call an ambulance they then made me feel like I was a thief. No it was not stolen, in fact I also have a note 4 that I bought brand new but I gave my daughter that one when her Sony phone died.
I ended up buying a Note Edge second hand again as a new one was going to take up to November to get here (unless I paid a stupid amount of money for delivery and even then it could have taken 4 weeks). I'll end up buying a new motherboard if this one dies too, hell I may even just order one when I have the money so I have it spare.
BTW the Note Edge is way more awesome than the Note 4.
I now have a new battery cover, a fake Samsung battery cover case thing and a few screen protectors on the way, I don't think they are glass and the glass ones on eBay are a rip off. I'll be able to charge the phone on my Samsung note 3 dock and the spare battery at the same time. When I have some spare $ I'll grab another spare battery (I like to have 3 batteries in case one starts to swell and die).
I would have taken this further due to not being able to call the ambulance but our consumer laws say that you must have proof of purchase, besides I'm visiting the hospital every day working full time and trying to do the family house work & cooking so I don't have enough time. I'm also still really shaken up by what happened so it's probably better that I let it go.

Question Crack in screen after little over 30 days of buying

purchased a z flip 3 a little over 30 days ago and noticed a small crack in the middle of the screen where it folds. It's been in a case since purchased new and had never been dropped. Been trying to get help with Samsung support for over 3 hours and still no resolution. I am told that the screen is not covered under the 1 year warranty when this is clearly a defect. I've been a loyal Samsung customer with 18 phones and watches registered with Samsung. This is the absolute worst support I ever experienced and needless to say this will be the last Samsung product I purchase.

If you bought it with a MC or Visa talk with your bank. See if you can return for a full refund.
Maybe the bank charge back will make Samsung more reasonable.
However as you can see with your own eyes the writings on the wall as to the durability of these folding displays. I take the money and run if that's an option.

blackhawk said:
If you bought it with a MC or Visa talk with your bank. See if you can return for a full refund.
Maybe the bank charge back will make Samsung more reasonable.
However as you can see with your own eyes the writings on the wall as to the durability of these folding displays. I take the money and run if that's an option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I've been a loyal Samsung customer for over 20 years but that ends today. There customer support is the absolute worst. I cannot even get a call back from their support team. Hopefully this will end in a class action lawsuit.

mtbdavid2 said:
Thanks, I've been a loyal Samsung customer for over 20 years but that ends today. There customer support is the absolute worst. I cannot even get a call back from their support team. Hopefully this will end in a class action lawsuit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really you want to cover your ass-ets, not save the world from Samsung.
Try the charge back first.
File a complaint with the FTC. If they get enough complaints they will take action.

mtbdavid2 said:
purchased a z flip 3 a little over 30 days ago and noticed a small crack in the middle of the screen where it folds. It's been in a case since purchased new and had never been dropped. Been trying to get help with Samsung support for over 3 hours and still no resolution. I am told that the screen is not covered under the 1 year warranty when this is clearly a defect. I've been a loyal Samsung customer with 18 phones and watches registered with Samsung. This is the absolute worst support I ever experienced and needless to say this will be the last Samsung product I purchase.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do you have a picture to show us? We are intrigued and want to learn where the spot is. so we can also check on our units.

jychow74 said:
do you have a picture to show us? We are intrigued and want to learn where the spot is. so we can also check on our units.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I loaded pics of the crack in my original post.

oh dear. managed to see the little crack, especially with white background. better talk to Samsung. You should request for replacement.

I'm not a Sammy fan boy. I've had a couple of samsung phones, off and on over the last 10 years. To to give a little balance, and credit were it's due, I recently sent an S20 back for repair due to a screen issue. I have had the S20 since Feb 2020, and can not fault customer service here in the UK.
I received the phone back, fixed under warranty, in less than 7 days.

johnny8910 said:
I'm not a Sammy fan boy. I've had a couple of samsung phones, off and on over the last 10 years. To to give a little balance, and credit were it's due, I recently sent an S20 back for repair due to a screen issue. I have had the S20 since Feb 2020, and can not fault customer service here in the UK.
I received the phone back, fixed under warranty, in less than 7 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I'm willing to bet the UK has laws in place to protect consumers where here in America big business controls everything and our federal politicians are controlled by big business so the consumer always lose in this country.

I'm not a Sammy fan boy. Just to get that straight.