Technology is a fast-paced industry, especially when it comes to mobile devices, with new models coming out yearly. Staying up-to-date with the latest features and specs is becoming more expensive, which is why preowned and refurbished devices, especially iPhones, are rising.
Refurbished devices are a cost-effective way to keep up with the latest technology without paying full price. Despite what many people believe, refurbished options don’t exist just for older phones; it’s possible to find even the newest models second-hand after launch.
So, if you want to experience all the cutting-edge features that Apple’s premium iPhones have to offer, a refurbished iPhone is a great choice. However, when it comes to buying a pre-owned phone, there are a few things to consider, like how to set it up, the refurbishment process, and how to find a reputable dealer.
Not only are refurbished phones a great way to save money when shopping, but if you’re an eco-conscious shopper, they’re also good for the environment. Opting for a refurbished phone avoids the extraction of raw materials, reduces technological waste, and lowers the emission of greenhouse gases.
The Steps To Setting Up A Second-Hand iPhone
We understand how exciting it is to get your hands on a new (refurbished) device, but we also know how daunting it can be to set it up properly, especially an iPhone if you’re new to the iOS/Apple ecosystem. Whether you’ve purchased a refurbished iPhone from a reputable reseller or are just looking for tips to set up a preowned phone from a friend or family member, the following steps will ensure that your iPhone is set up properly and securely.
Inspection
Before you set up your second-hand iPhone, we recommend an initial inspection, and this advice extends to any time you purchase a preowned device. It’s important to check the phone for any signs of physical damage or defects. Check the screen, casing, buttons, and ports for signs of wear and tear. Make sure the phone turns on, the charger works, and the battery holds a charge. If you notice any issues, contact the seller or consider repairing the phone.
Reset the Phone
Wiping all previous data and settings should be one of the first steps whenever you buy a pre-owned device, even if the seller reassures you that it has already been factory reset. It’s a quick process, and it’s a great way to properly ensure your device is completely cleared and secure.
There are two ways to completely erase data on an iPhone. One way is through the Settings app. Navigate to Settings > General > Reset iPhone. This will erase all content and settings from the phone.
The other way to completely erase data is by using your Mac or Windows PC and factory resetting it. Connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB or USB-C cable. Turn on the iPhone and then on your Windows PC or Mac, then do the following:
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On a Mac (macOS 10.15 or later): Click the ‘Finder’ icon in the Dock to open a Finder window. Then, click the iPhone button in the Finder sidebar, click General at the top of the window, then click ‘Restore iPhone’.
- On a Mac (macOS 10.14 or earlier) and Windows PC: Open iTunes (make sure you have the latest version installed) and click the iPhone button near the top left of the iTunes window. Then, click Summary and then select ‘Restore iPhone’.
Activation Lock
The last thing you want is the device still being linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID. If it is, it’ll be locked with ‘Activation Lock’. To check for this, try setting up the iPhone and see if it prompts you for the previous user’s Apple ID and password. If this happens, you can reset it by contacting the seller and asking them to remove the device from their iCloud account.
Inserting a SIM Card or eSIM
After resetting your iPhone, the next step is getting the SIM card set up. Typically, all you need to do is insert the SIM Card into your iPhone. Depending on the model of your iPhone, it may also support multiple SIM cards and/or eSIM functionality. If the iPhone is locked to a specific carrier, you’ll need to ensure the SIM is from that carrier or get the device unlocked.
Set-up & Apple ID
After inserting your SIM, you’ll want to properly set up the phone and log in with your Apple ID. When you first turn on the phone after a factory reset, you should be prompted to set up your iPhone by selecting a language, region and a Wi-Fi network to connect to.
If you’re already part of Apple’s iOS ecosystem, there should also be an option to transfer data from another iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. If you’re swapping from Android, Apple has a ‘Move to iOS’ app to help transfer contacts, messages, photos, and more.
It’s also important to create and log in with an Apple ID and connect it to your new device. An Apple ID is required to access Apple’s services, such as iMessage, the App Store, and iCloud.
Update iOS
We also recommend updating your refurbished iPhone to ensure it has the latest software and security patches. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, you’ll be able to download and install it.
Customisation & Security
Once your device is completely set up, you’re ready to customise the phone, install apps and games, and configure security—most importantly, Face ID. Setting up Face ID on a used iPhone is the same as setting up Face ID and other security measures on any iPhone.
Firstly, you’ll want to make sure your device supports Face ID (iPhone X and later models). Then, go to the Settings app and scroll down to ‘Face ID & Passcode’. Here, you’ll be able to set up Face ID and configure other security measures.
Why Buy Refurbished iPhones Instead of Used Or Second-Hand iPhones
It’s important not to confuse refurbished iPhones with used or second-hand. Whilst a refurbished device may be preowned in most cases, sometimes it could be a demo or display stock.
Refurbished iPhones undergo extensive inspections and testing processes by certified technicians to ensure optimal operation. Any faulty or defective parts are replaced with genuine components, and the software is updated.
Buying a refurbished iPhone offers more reliability and reassurance than buying used or second-hand, as a qualified professional has checked the device. Refurbished iPhones (from a reputable seller) are also cleaned and restored to like-new condition, while used or second-hand iPhones are sold as is.
Warranty protection is also uncommon when buying used or preowned. On the other hand, reputable refurbished iPhone sellers, like OzMobiles, typically offer free warranties and risk-free return policies.
Buy Refurbished iPhones at OzMobiles
For the best deal on iPhones, including the latest iPhone 15 series of devices, buying refurbished is a great way to save money whilst experiencing the latest features and software. Here at OzMobiles, we stock refurbished iPhones and accessories at great prices.
All the devices we sell at OzMobiles also go through a comprehensive refurbishment process. This includes an extensive 72-point check in our Melbourne headquarters, using professional, industry-standard testing tools and genuine parts.
During this refurbishment process, every component is checked from the hardware to the software level to ensure every aspect of the phone is fully functional and running optimally. The OzMobiles team also stands behind every refurbished device we sell, so you get a free 12-month warranty and 30-day risk-free return.
So, if you have a change of heart or you run into an issue, you can return the device, and our team will assist you where possible. All the phones we stock also come with a ‘battery life guarantee’, so you can rest assured your device will have an overall battery health of at least 80% or more.
If you have any questions about our iPhone range, our refurbishment process, or how to set up a refurbished phone, contact us today. Our team would happily help you find the perfect phone and answer any queries.
