When the iPhone 13 launched, excerpts widely held that this would be a supply shortage year. And it certainly lived up to the billing. There were plenty of models you could buy, but getting your hands on the phone you wanted quickly was particularly hard.
As Apple fans around the globe stare in dismay at the scarcity of iPhones online and at store stockings that are thinner than they expected, there are two things you need to know: how to beat this shortage and how not to get ripped off.
You can do different things to beat the shortage and get a hold of an iPhone 13 as quickly as possible. This article will provide a few tips on securing the phone you want and help avoid overpaying for an iPhone in high demand.
Usually, based on reboxed data there is a flurry of the latest iphone entering the market the following year. January is a good time to snag one in the refurbished secondary market. These ‘refurbished’ devices usually are in pristine condition and not necessarily refurbished at all but just in fact returned devices to apple, which they have to technically label as refurbished and they have had one previous owner.
Ways of Beating the iPhone 13 Supply Shortage
Follow these steps, and you should get your hands on an iPhone 13 quickly:
1. Check Apple's Price Policy for Your Country
This is the best way of knowing if the price you're looking at matches up with the market value for this new phone. Because, of course, new iPhones tend to be hard to get your hands on, and the prices tend to go up as the stock diminishes.
However, if you are in a country where Apple has a set price policy, check that policy before buying from a third-party seller. If the phone is on sale for more than the Apple store price, you’re likely getting ripped off.
2. Get a Refurbished iPhone 13
An iPhone 13 that has been reconditioned is a good way of avoiding shortages and paying a lower price for the phone. This is true if you look at refurbished iPhones online, where there are tons of second-hand models available.
Buying a refurbished iPhone 13 can be similar to getting an unlocked/open box device from Apple, restored by the company. While Apple does not sell refurbished iPhones, numerous resellers out there do.
Before buying a refurbished iPhone 13, check the seller's policies on returns and shipping times to ensure that you are getting what you need.
3. Try to Get an iPhone 13 on Contract
One way of getting your hands on an iPhone 13 without having to pay the total price is to get it on contract. This means that you agree to a monthly fee in exchange for the phone.
Usually, you will pay less for the phone this way, and you will also have a locked-in contract, so you can't switch to a different phone company. If you can find an iPhone 13 contract, it might be the best way to go. Don't forget you can lower the amount you spend and recoup some cash by selling your old iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 when you upgrade
4. Check eBay and Other Online Markets
If you cannot get an iPhone 13 from the Apple store or through a carrier, another option is to check online markets like eBay.
You might luck out and find a good price on there or trade your old or second-hand phone for this one. Constantly research these sellers to make sure you're getting a good deal.
Of course, it is essential to be careful when buying online. Ensure you check the seller's rating and read the reviews before purchasing.
5. Get on the Waitlist for an iPhone 13
If you're not in a hurry to get your hands on an iPhone 13, one way to secure one is to get on the waitlist. This is a list of people waiting for the next shipment of phones to come in, and, as the phones become available, they get contacted in order of priority. So, if you're not in a rush, this might be a good option for you.
6. Wait for the Next New iPhone
If you can wait, there's always another new iPhone coming in 6-12 months. So why not wait if you need an iPhone urgently but don't want to overpay for one?
You will probably pay a little bit more for the phone next year, but you'll also have a guarantee that it is in stock and not just available by pre-order.
How To Choose a Refurbished iPhone
When looking for a good deal on a used iPhone, it is essential to be aware of what to look for to ensure you are getting a good phone. Here are a few tips:
1. Check the Seller's Rating and Reviews
One way to tell if a seller is reputable is by checking their rating and reviews. If the seller has many good reviews, they are likely a legitimate business, and you can trust them. However, if the seller has several bad reviews, it is best to stay away.
2. Check the Condition of the Phone
It is essential to check the phone’s condition before making a purchase. Try to look for some photos of the product and check that all the features are working as they should (touch ID, camera, etc.).
That way, you can be sure that you are getting a good phone and you won't have any surprises when it arrives.
3. Check the Price
It is important to compare prices before making a purchase. For example, if the phone has a selling price more than the Apple store price, you’re likely getting ripped off. So, ensure you compare prices before making a purchase.
4. Check the Warranty
When buying a used phone, it is vital to check the warranty. Some sellers offer a warranty for the phone, and some don't. If the seller doesn't provide a warranty, it is best to stay away. A good warranty will protect you if something goes wrong with the phone.
5. Check for Hidden Fees
Sellers might try to include hidden fees in the fine print. So, read through the description of the phone carefully. Ensure there are no taxes or added fees that aren't in the price. Also, if there is a warranty offered on the device, it's best to ask about the terms and conditions.
6. Check the IMEI Number
When buying a used phone, it is important to check the IMEI number to ensure that it was not reported stolen or lost. You can do this by checking the phone's status on a website like Apple's Activation Lock.
If there is a report about its loss, you will not activate it. So, it is essential to check that the phone is clean before purchasing.
In Summary
As you can see, there are numerous ways to beat the supply shortage and big price tags of new iPhones. Waiting for the next-generation model is always an option if you don’t need an iPhone urgently.
If you need an iPhone urgently, buy a refurbished one or get on the waitlist for the next new model. Whichever you decide to go, be aware of what to look for before purchasing.
