Spotting new LG G5 using IMEI SV ? - T-Mobile LG G5 Questions & Answers

Hi all,
I would really appreciate your help with a question I have.
I just got my supposedly brand new H830 LG G5 which I bought through e-Bay (top seller of course)
I bought in the recent past an LG G5 from Best Buy but I had to return it because it was the RS988 version, they claimed it will have full support of T-Mobile but it didn't (****ty signal)
Anyway, I just got my new H830 and I noticed something weird, it came without a sticker on the screen.
This made me quite suspicious so I checked some guides and my phone current IMEI SV is 09, from what I understand this means that the phone was reset/had his software updated at least 9 times. Usually a new phone comes with an IMEI SV of 00.
Before I start complaining, I wanted to make sure that I'm not missing anything, do you think the device is refurbished?
Thanks!

Check the manufacturing date...sv is the software revision ... the phone would have been manufactured recently ... so since the original date of manu the device would have already got 9 revs...

I did the same thing the OP did. Bought the phone brand new on eBay a couple weeks ago. Mine came preloaded with Android 7.
How does one check the manufacturing date of the phone?

Skipjacks said:
I did the same thing the OP did. Bought the phone brand new on eBay a couple weeks ago. Mine came preloaded with Android 7.
How does one check the manufacturing date of the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's written on the box, or you could contact LG's customer service, send them your IMEI and they'll tell you the phone details.

Thanks!
Mine says manufactured in February 2017 with software version 20c on the label
But the phone has the April 2017 security patch installed and is running 20i (I don't think I did an OTA when I first set the phone up).
Should this be sending up major red flags to me?
I mean the phone I got is working fine and it's a great price. I'm super happy with the phone. But I'll be mildly steamed if I bought it as new and it's not.

Skipjacks said:
Thanks!
Mine says manufactured in February 2017 with software version 20c on the label
But the phone has the April 2017 security patch installed and is running 20i (I don't think I did an OTA when I first set the phone up).
Should this be sending up major red flags to me?
I mean the phone I got is working fine and it's a great price. I'm super happy with the phone. But I'll be mildly steamed if I bought it as new and it's not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We're in the same boat, bought the same one.
From eBay, right?
It seems to be legit because the manufacturing date is supposedly February 22nd, but I'm still waiting to hear from the seller and from LG.

fabiansc said:
We're in the same boat, bought the same one.
From eBay, right?
It seems to be legit because the manufacturing date is supposedly February 22nd, but I'm still waiting to hear from the seller and from LG.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I just talked to LG (mainly because you freaked me out and made me question the authenticity here)
I used this number 800 243-0000
Took about a minute to get to a real person. He tried to give me lots of superficial info until I said I wanted him to look up the IMEI then he was glad to do that. And he ended up being really helpful.
The LG rep confirmed the February manufacture date for my IMEI. And he confirmed that LG had never refurbished the phone. (That doesn't mean it wasn't refurbished by someone other than LG, but if it was they did a hell of a good job as there isn't a scratch on it and it runs perfectly fine.) The LG rep also said that it wasn't concerning to him that the phone first booted with software version 20i even though the box says 20c because that small security patch probably updated on first boot without me noticing. All in all the LG rep sounded like he reasonably knew what he was talking about and he said my device looked fine on his end and nothing I said gave him any cause for alarm.
The phone had all the stickers on it. The clear anti scratch stickers on the sides and on the screen and on the little part at the bottom that holds the battery, and it came wrapped in the extra layer of clear plastic that wraps all the way around it. Third party refurbishers don't do all that. Only LG does, and per LG this has never been sent back to LG.
I mean I guess it could have been locally refurbished into brand new perfect working condition and repacked into the box and the security seal diligently pealed off and replaced....but that seems unlikely when it could just be sold as 'new other' or 'open box like new' for $10 cheaper.
I also asked the seller about it before I bought it and they said (this is cut and pasted from their response) "This is a brand new sealed model and is the T-mobile model of the phone which is also GSM unlocked. "
So the seller and LG have both told me it's new. and thus the warranty is still in tact.
If your seller was "buyspry" then we bought the same deal.
Also it's VERY worth mentioning that this eBay seller has dozens of phone auctions. Most of them are for used and refurbished phones. So the seller does a lot of refurbished sales. It seems odd that a seller would be truthful about some listings but lie about others.
---------- Post added at 02:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:27 PM ----------
So this is interesting...
https://slickdeals.net/f/10327428-p...tphone-silver-200-fs-ebay?page=10#commentsBox
This is a discussion about a deal this same seller was offering on eBay. But this page of the discussion is about the authenticity of the phones. Some people are saying theirs came with the 20i software (without doing an update) and the security seal on the box cut and repaired with a clear circle sticker over the original security seal.
Mine definitely had that circular sticker over the security seal, but I checked it up pretty closely before cutting it and it looked like the original seal was intact. I guess I could have just not seen a slice in that.
People on Slickdeals seem to think that that might have been done to unlock the phone since it was sold as unlocked. But if the box was opened, it's illegal to sell the phone as 'brand new' and massively against eBay's rules.
I'm gonna reach back out to the seller.
---------- Post added at 03:38 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:44 PM ----------
And now that I looked diligently at the seller's feedback I see this (dated after my purchase)
LG G5 was not new. Be careful. The T-mobile seal was broken and resealed! Used!
BRAND NEW LG G5 H830T 32GB T-Mobile + GSM Unlocked 4G LTE Smartphone (#352049253484)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what everyone on the Slickdeals site was saying too. I found photos of the G5 t mobile box with the seal intact and none of them have that extra circular sticker.
So I've changed my mind. I think this phone was NOT new and sealed from LG but was sold as such anyway.
---------- Post added at 04:33 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:38 PM ----------
And this got worse.
I called eBay to ask about my options here, since if it is fraud I would not trust the seller to refund properly or not play an additional scam like claim they didn't get the phone back.
The eBay rep slipped up and told me that they have multiple reports about the exact problems listed above about this seller. She's not supposed to say that. That's supposed to be proprietary eBay information. But she did.
So this phone does NOT appear to be brand new in a sealed box.

I got my G5 recently from buyspry/ebay too. I also have the clear circle sticker over the T-Mobile sticker. My phone matched everything shown on this unboxing video of T-Mobile G5 from March 2016. I'm not worried about this being used, refurbished, or stolen. Maybe the seller (or their supplier) got a bunch from T-Mobile. T-Mobile stores will purposely cut the seal so people can't return them for fraudulent reasons. So maybe that's what happened here so people won't try to return to T-Mobile for higher value.
Given the Feb 2017 manufacture date, LG and T-Mobile may have decided to clear them out (i.e., sell to wholesaler) in preparation of the G6. Who would've bought a G5 in Feb 2017 given all the negative press of the prior 6 months? It think it was LG's mistake to continue making the G5 that long.

I already became more relaxed and now I'm suspicious again, the fact that he got many complaints are interesting, he just answered me a few hours ago, I'll get back to him.
Here's the thing, we both bought the phone from the same seller, I was BTW on the Slickdeals post as well.
The phone didn't really come sealed, but if you'll look at LG G5 unboxing guides (and more specifically the T-Mobile model) you'll notice that it arrived well.
I'll tell the seller that it didn't come sealed and we'll see how he answers.
Eventually, the biggest evidence for me that it seems to be real is that we all have as manufacturing date the 02/22/2017 and it seems to be the real one according to LG after giving them my IMEI.
Looking forward to hear what you've did to decide what to do

@fabiansc, your original post mentioned "it came without a sticker on the screen". Mine had a clear film, like a screen protector. I didn't notice it until I accidently peeled it while cleaning in preparation for a glass screen protector. The video below of an AT&T unboxing shows the AT&T version has something printed on the screen film. Plus the bar code sticker on back is larger. I think we're lucky the T-Mobile version is unprinted. I wish I was still using it since glass screen protectors don't lay flat on the G5.
Buyspry sold over 1600 of these units and they've been a Ebay daily deal seller many times before. Apparently Ebay has a heavy vetting process of sellers for daily deals. Buyspry was part of the limited list of sellers who qualified for the 20% coupon (now expired) that dropped the price to $191.19. I don't work for Buyspry nor am I affiliated with them. I feel like I got an amazing deal ($200) for a legit device. You can't expect to pay so little (especially on Ebay) without some sort of concession (cut sticker in this case).

HKSpeed said:
I got my G5 recently from buyspry/ebay too. I also have the clear circle sticker over the T-Mobile sticker. My phone matched everything shown on this unboxing video of T-Mobile G5 from March 2016. I'm not worried about this being used, refurbished, or stolen. Maybe the seller (or their supplier) got a bunch from T-Mobile. T-Mobile stores will purposely cut the seal so people can't return them for fraudulent reasons. So maybe that's what happened here so people won't try to return to T-Mobile for higher value.
Given the Feb 2017 manufacture date, LG and T-Mobile may have decided to clear them out (i.e., sell to wholesaler) in preparation of the G6. Who would've bought a G5 in Feb 2017 given all the negative press of the prior 6 months? It think it was LG's mistake to continue making the G5 that long.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you're saying t mobile has extra inventory when the new model comes out. So they sell that inventory cheap. And to keep me from buying it on ebay for $200 and returning it to t mobile still unopened and sealed in the box for full retail they cut the seals so they are officially open boxes (meaning no store would take one back without a receipt).
That makes sense.
Do you know this is T Mobile policy fro a fact? Or are you speculating?
I'm not questioning your logic. This does make sense and makes me feel better even if you're speculating that's what happened. But if you know for a fact T Mobile does that, I'll feel even better.
---------- Post added at 05:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:24 PM ----------
HKSpeed said:
Buyspry sold over 1600 of these units and they've been a Ebay daily deal seller many times before. Apparently Ebay has a heavy vetting process of sellers for daily deals. Buyspry was part of the limited list of sellers who qualified for the 20% coupon (now expired) that dropped the price to $191.19. I don't work for Buyspry nor am I affiliated with them. I feel like I got an amazing deal ($200) for a legit device. You can't expect to pay so little (especially on Ebay) without some sort of concession (cut sticker in this case).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone is working fantastically. Even if it was opened and updated, I'm totally cool with that. I'd just like to know that up front and not be told it's never been opened. It should be listed as "new other" with an explanation of why the box was open but the phone was new. and 100% unused.
My concern was that the IMEI would suddenly turn up bad 3 months down the road. If it's just a cut seal because they opened it to unlock it or update the software...fine. Just tell me that's what you did before I buy it.
I also didn't realize ebay had a heavy vetting process for certain deals. (Or that there even was a daily deal on this phone). Thanks for sharing that.

Buyspry should've mentioned the boxes were opened to unlock. That's their mistake. Maybe they knew and purposely tried to hide it with the clear sticker. Or maybe a wholesaler opened them to unlock and resealed them, without informing Buyspry. Someone had to open these phones to unlocked them. I've unlocked many LG phones using codes I purchased on Ebay. I had to input the code using the phone dialer app. Who knows if Buyspry actually did the unlocking.
If you read the Slickdeals thread for the BOGO T-Mobile LG G6 deal ($500 rebate direct from LG) that lasted one day, people wrote how store associates cut the seals on purpose. Store managers were afraid this was some kind of scam, because T-Mobile didn't know about LG's rebate offer. People on Slickdeals were pissed because they planned to sell the second phone on Craigslist/ebay/swappa, and cutting the seal hurt the value.

When I use the T Mobile unlock app that comes preinstalled it says the phone is locked. Then it has errors.
I didn't think much of that before because I don't care. I have no intention of leaving T Mobile in the next year.
Would that app error out if the phone was unlocked manually?
You are GREATLY improving my mood, by the way. So I appreciate you adding this additional info about how T Mobile deals with overstock. (I knew it was overstock from the beginning. I asked the seller specifically is that's what it was before purchase and they confirmed)

Skipjacks said:
When I use the T Mobile unlock app that comes preinstalled it says the phone is locked. Then it has errors.
I didn't think much of that before because I don't care. I have no intention of leaving T Mobile in the next year.
Would that app error out if the phone was unlocked manually?
You are GREATLY improving my mood, by the way. So I appreciate you adding this additional info about how T Mobile deals with overstock. (I knew it was overstock from the beginning. I asked the seller specifically is that's what it was before purchase and they confirmed)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I get an error too when I try the unlock app. It maybe because I disabled so many apps, include all of T-Mobile's. I don't plan on leaving T-Mobile for a very long time. I'll try an AT&T SIM when I get home later.
Many retailers (any type) get rid of excess merchandise via wholesalers/liquidators. One company buys all of the leftover G5 at once, so T-Mobile doesn't have to worry about having a few dozen or hundred leftovers. Retailers are contractually obligated to sell at prices approved by the manufacturer, so I doubt T-Mobile could sell these phone for $1 each without upsetting LG. A wholesaler/liquidator doesn't follow the same rules. LG (not T-Mobile) could've sold these phones directly to a wholesaler/liquidator for the same reasons.

This morning I popped an old disconnected AT&T SIM into the G5. No error message. The status bar showed showed "searching" for the network name. I then put that AT&T sim in my locked T-Mobile G6. I instantly got an error message saying the phone is network locked and I need to contact T-Mobile. The status bar showed "network locked" for the network name.

Anyone try running Android Pay with this t-mobile unlocked phone? I got an error message saying Android Pay can't be used when trying to add a card.
Does that mean this phone has unlocked bootloader?

So Buyspry emailed me back and said
Dear Buyer,
Please be advised these phones are brand new and have been sealed by the manufacture.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So they are full of malarkey, unless they know how to update and unlock a phone that's powered off in the box.
But I do feel better after reading this thread that despite it being an open box it's probably not a huge deal. I still don't like being misled though.
To everyone else who bought from this eBay listing, did yours come with a new T Mobile SIM card? T Mobile usually includes a new SIM card in the box with every phone they sell, even if you already have a SIM. The G5 I got didn't have the card. I wonder if T Mobile opened them to remove the SIM cards when they sold them wholesale so they could be used for other customers.
On that matter, I needed a new SIM because the one I had was a mini SIM, not a micro SIM. So I needed a new one to make my G5 work. I went to the T Mobile store, told them what happened and why I needed a new SIM. They activated a new one for me and sent me on my way at no cost in 5 minutes. This kind of thing is why I'm not leaving T Mobile for the foreseable future. Customer service is outstanding.
I also wondered if T Mobile has to unlock them themselves to sell them wholesale. There are some weird laws around unlocking phones.

Related

Refurb ripped on ebay

Hey guys
So I ended up buying off of ebay, made the huge mistake of buying from a "newer" seller. It came in the mail, and a few things wrong with it
a) no car charger like the ad said (altho he said he'd put it in the mail asap)
b) it was in a tattered ATT box that was not like the new box from the ebay ad
c) black marker on the box tries to cover the fact that it says "refurbished kit" (I can luckily read through the marker)
So paypal has withdrawn the funds for now (on the circumstance that they actually double charged my credit card and withdrew both funds again until this is resolved). So hopefully this means I got some leverage here.
I basically told him:
"I will credit payment back, however would
like to receive the car charger as per the ebay ad, and at least have
you admit that you did not send me a new phone but rather a
refurbished one, in a box that was not as shown in the ad. We can
then either agree upon a new fair price, or I will delay the payment
until the dispute is resolved through paypal."
What would you guys think is a fair price for a refurbished one? I paid 375USD$ (355 + 20 shipping) or 410$CAN
He is said to now make it 340$?
is it worth it to still be dealing with this guy at all?
?
how much would a refurbished go for in comparison to a used att tilt?
Who was the seller? Do you have a link to the completed auction?
I sold a buddy's old Tilt for about $400 locally, so I think a $375 shipped price for a factory refurb is still a good deal. I still remember selling a brand new one only opened for unlock for $650, but that was awhile ago, haha.
~Cheers~
hi
what are some things i should be cautious of refurb?
i wanna check and make sure everything is working before i continue negotiating/paying him
it seems that sometimes it does not read the touch screen (or is slow to detect)
does this happen normally?
Go90go said:
Who was the seller? Do you have a link to the completed auction?
I sold a buddy's old Tilt for about $400 locally, so I think a $375 shipped price for a factory refurb is still a good deal. I still remember selling a brand new one only opened for unlock for $650, but that was awhile ago, haha.
~Cheers~
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't imagine why someone would pay $650 for a Tilt, even when they were brand new they were $549.99 without contract.
it would help if you told us what kind of device you've bought (i've read AT&T and refurb. but no device name)
Xtreme XL said:
it would help if you told us what kind of device you've bought (i've read AT&T and refurb. but no device name)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a Tilt, he says it in 2nd post.
I'd go for between $320-$350 and no higher, non-negotiable! The ad is different from the actual product, your missing parts, and the other crap you have to deal with.
Refurbished should work just as well as a new device, sometimes a refurbished works better than a new. It's a gamble either way since you don't know what the seller has done with it. Pull up some system info on the device and see if it's stock info. Also, is there any physical damage?
TILT
yes its an HTC tilt
there is no physical damage and it looks good
"Pull up some system info on the device and see if it's stock info"
how is this done?
he also claims that their is still a one year warranty....if i send it back to ATT they will send me a new one. Is there a way to verify this?

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.
Click to expand...
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.

Anyone purchased direct from Samsung before? (UK)

Weighing up whether to pre-order the S7 Edge directly from Samsung or from Carphone Warehouse. My main concern is with potential hardware issues - who would have better customer service at replacing/repairs? Anyone had experience with either?
Thanks
I can say I bought the Gear VR on the site UK came next day so delivery was spot on. Both are going to give you the same warranties and service I would say so its up to personal choice. Got the S4 from carphone warehouse when it came out they were spot on got it releases day etc no hassle
From what I've seen in the small print, no returns from carphone if bought sim free, only an exchange, with samsung uk you can change your mind and return it if you dont like it if purchased sim free
I went with samsung uk cause of this
doodles123 said:
Weighing up whether to pre-order the S7 Edge directly from Samsung or from Carphone Warehouse. My main concern is with potential hardware issues - who would have better customer service at replacing/repairs? Anyone had experience with either?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never dealt with CW before but I recently had to send back my S6 edge to Samsung for a hardware repair and it wasn't exactly a smooth experience but that wasn't down to Samsung themselves. They use an authorised repair centre caled SBE LTD and they are dire. It was sorted out perfectly at the end but it took a while.
That hasn't put me off from ordering my S7 Edge directly from Samsung though:good:
gadgetgaz said:
I've never dealt with CW before but I recently had to send back my S6 edge to Samsung for a hardware repair and it wasn't exactly a smooth experience but that wasn't down to Samsung themselves. They use an authorised repair centre caled SBE LTD and they are dire. It was sorted out perfectly at the end but it took a while.
That hasn't put me off from ordering my S7 Edge directly from Samsung though:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Boy, did I speak too soon?
Thanks for the help. I think the vague returns/exchange policy from CPW has decided it for me, had a look on their site and it's quite confusing, will just stick with Samsung
doodles123 said:
Thanks for the help. I think the vague returns/exchange policy from CPW has decided it for me, had a look on their site and it's quite confusing, will just stick with Samsung
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep they only accept returns on contract phones from what I read, within 14 days
UK Distance Selling Laws mean that all retailers must offer a refund within 14 days if the product is returned unopened if you change your mind.
mikey_sk said:
UK Distance Selling Laws mean that all retailers must offer a refund within 14 days if the product is returned unopened if you change your mind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thought there must've been a law on this. I guess what we were talking about only applies to instore sales as that's what their FAQ page referred to. Thanks for clarifying
Buying from carphone gives you the added advantage of dropping it off at a store if it needs repairing and often than not they just swap the phone if it's faulty.
mikey_sk said:
UK Distance Selling Laws mean that all retailers must offer a refund within 14 days if the product is returned unopened if you change your mind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unopened goes without saying. You can return anything with the seal intact.
I'm talking about opened, not on contract and they only want to swap it for you only. I don't like that
You can send back the goods even if they have been opened as long as all original contents are still with it and its in a resellable / undamaged condition. Be wary to ensure you don't damage the packaging or write on it as this can scupper the refund.
mikey_sk said:
You can send back the goods even if they have been opened as long as all original contents are still with it and its in a resellable / undamaged condition. Be wary to ensure you don't damage the packaging or write on it as this can scupper the refund.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep this is the law of the land, but some companies think their own policies overide it, and they're a pain to deal with. Companies like amazon are a joy to deal with regarding returns in my experience.
Carphone warehouse WONT let you return a sim free phone purchased in store, only option is to exchange it for another, once. They allow sim free to be returned if bought online due to distant selling regulations
Samsung allow a return within 28 days if bought in store or online.
I'm sure no one will need to return though, soon will come those lucky tmobile sons of *itches with their phone reviews today or tomorrow
mikey_sk said:
Buying from carphone gives you the added advantage of dropping it off at a store if it needs repairing and often than not they just swap the phone if it's faulty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see is this from experience?
lawtq said:
Yep this is the law of the land, but some companies think their own policies overide it, and they're a pain to deal with. Companies like amazon are a joy to deal with regarding returns in my experience.
Carphone warehouse WONT let you return a sim free phone purchased in store, only option is to exchange it for another, once. They allow sim free to be returned if bought online due to distant selling regulations
Samsung allow a return within 28 days if bought in store or online.
I'm sure no one will need to return though, soon will come those lucky tmobile sons of *itches with their phone reviews today or tomorrow
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no terms can override statutory rights. anything purchased over the phone or on the internet/mailorder etc is covered by the distance selling rules. Thats why i never buy anything from a shop, as your stuck with whatever terms they have- EE is a major baddie for this!
---------- Post added at 12:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:23 PM ----------
doodles123 said:
I see is this from experience?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes- love or hate them CPW is same as PC World, Dixons etc and they are a reputable trusted company.
I think Carphone are the ones that send out the Samsung website phones from the Carphone warehouse anyway. I know they do it for Google and many other phone manufacturers in UK.
mikey_sk said:
no terms can override statutory rights. anything purchased over the phone or on the internet/mailorder etc is covered by the distance selling rules. Thats why i never buy anything from a shop, as your stuck with whatever terms they have- EE is a major baddie for this!
---------- Post added at 12:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:23 PM ----------
yes- love or hate them CPW is same as PC World, Dixons etc and they are a reputable trusted company.
I think Carphone are the ones that send out the Samsung website phones from the Carphone warehouse anyway. I know they do it for Google and many other phone manufacturers in UK.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great thanks for the help, did a quick search and as you said it seems they're generally quite relaxed with just replacing things in store which is a huge plus. Good luck with the new phone!
I thought it was all bs until one morning I stumble my way to the bathroom and while sitting there, barely awake, I opened my phone and the dress was there and I seen it was blue and black, I thoughtlessly changed the page and then did a quick return when I realized what I just saw and when I went back it was white and gold.... Blew my mind..
danieljenkin said:
I thought it was all bs until one morning I stumble my way to the bathroom and while sitting there, barely awake, I opened my phone and the dress was there and I seen it was blue and black, I thoughtlessly changed the page and then did a quick return when I realized what I just saw and when I went back it was white and gold.... Blew my mind..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
W ... T.... F? Lol
the Uk doesnt follow the EU distance selling regulation any more. Now you can return if it's faulty but otherwise it's up to the company whether they give you a refund or store credit.
edit - my bad, for online purchases you can still get a refund but they can deduct from your refund for packaging.
"Not processed" argh.
Hoping it doesn't stay in this state until 7th, I'll get fidgety....
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Stolen U12+

Guys long ago i opened a new thread for the display at my U12 + and I found out that the phone was already used, probably by another buyer or RMA. I buy that from ebay from the buyer "kimbimobile"
The seller has not only been smart and has sold me a used and not new phone, but on the insertion is written that also sends a Re Cam, of course he did not send it, only after very very much messages and open complaint.
After the opening of the complaint Ebay said to send it all back and of course the seller said he only received the accessories and no the phone, the re cam that does not work.2 of 2.
Ebay now has at 10 days for the checks, but I'm afraid that gives reason to him, clearly he is cheating me, he and not the courier or otherwise, he signed the package at the time of receipt, it was not damaged
Now do not know what to do, I often get almost € 1000 for the love of HTC, I thought about opening this thread to look for help, surely those who buy an HTC is a geek or programmer (like me), or who work in IT.
I thought to write here code code imei 353222090 and the last 6 number those who buy the U12+ 128Gb Blue Translucent from Ebay.Surely he will put his HTC online again
Thanks
Ebay give me reason and my money back, now i want publish the 2 imeis for future readers.
The name of the sealler on ebay is "kimbimobile"
1. 353222090629653
2. 353222090629661
Who have this phone, the phone is back from RMA with the LCD changed and after sold me like new phone, already the phone have others more problems, again with the display.
I've never had a problem with eBay and the sellers there. If I didn't receive an item eBay will help with a refund. If something was defective the seller will make good on the sale.
I hope I never ever come across a scammer on eBay.
Sent from my coconut frond hut using Tapatalk
O/T but wow, I've been scammed on eBay several times that I can remember. Twice it involved substituting an older or lesser model for what was described -- these were cases where it wouldn't be obvious to the average person what was inside. (For example, a laptop with a slower processor.) It always seems to get resolved but the process can take ages. Be careful out there.

Did I buy a real V50 / V450VM (Verizon/US)? (Edit: Nope)

Not sure if this is the right place to post or not but I just bought what was supposed to be a "new" LG V50 (V450VM) Verizon model on Ebay When I received it it was in a V50 Box with "KT" (Not Verizon), with a generic serial number/IMEI/UPC label on it. It said made in Korea but no manufacture date. The box was not sealed, but the V50 had a screen protector on it that looked untouched. The accessories are complete although the headphone box had obviously been open before.
I have turned it on and it acts like a V50. The V50 FW that came preloaded was 20d, which dates from July 2020, which is likely well after the phone was actually built. So that makes me suspicious it's been cross flashed or refurbished in some way and sold as new. I'm not in a hurry to put my Verizon SIM in it in case of issues. I am also concerned it will not eventually take the Android 11 update if I decide to try to upgrade, although that will depend when and if KDZs become available for that. (as I know some unscrupulous sellers cross flash models that then basically get orphaned)
Swappa's IMEI checker shows it as a V450VM correctly, IMEI.Guru's site says model unknown.
I'm mostly concerned that it's not a real V50 and will not last like a real V50 or perform like one. Are there any obvious red flags here? Other things to check? or is this likely just some 'new' but repackaged surplus V450VM? (It was a seller in the US, not one of the Chinese sellers who I purposely avoided hoping to not have a situation like this) I have not yet contacted the seller to ask what's happening in case I'm just being too suspicious/picky.
Thanks!
Replying to myself to add that I discovered the 5G logo/light on the back of the phone matches the photos online of the *Sprint* model (5 slightly above G) and not the Verizon model (with the 5G and a checkmark). So this has been crossflashed at some point in its life and is definitely not a true V450VM.
Requested a return from the seller, hopefully this will not become a mess. I wish I would have caught this issue faster.
Buzzy42 said:
Replying to myself to add that I discovered the 5G logo/light on the back of the phone matches the photos online of the *Sprint* model (5 slightly above G) and not the Verizon model (with the 5G and a checkmark). So this has been crossflashed at some point in its life and is definitely not a true V450VM.
Requested a return from the seller, hopefully this will not become a mess. I wish I would have caught this issue faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems a lot of these exist out there... a lot of V50 "open box" or "new sealed in box" on ebay... problem is... doesn't matter if it's a US Seller, many of these Chinese sellers seem to set up shop in the US or have a partner who buys them in bulk and sells them.
I'm questioning whether I should get one or not..... as long as it's rootable to put a custom ROM, the cameras work like OEM hardware, and the DAC is legit.... I think I'm ok with it... But only someone with experience could probably chime in.
Is it worth while getting one of these "grey" market V50's from China?

Categories

Resources